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Description
Mimusops Zeyheri, also known as Transvaal Red Milkwood, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to South Africa. It belongs to the Sapotaceae family and grows up to 10-20 meters tall. The bark is rough, grey-brown in color, and has a scaly appearance. The leaves are simple, alternate, and glossy green with a leathery texture. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and the fruit is a berry-like drupe that turns from green to red when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Mimusops |
Appearance
Mimusops Zeyheri is a beautiful evergreen tree that can add aesthetic value to any landscape. Its glossy green leaves are oval to lanceolate-shaped, with a length of 6-14 cm and a width of 2-5 cm. The tree can produce small white flowers that are fragrant and bloom in late winter to early summer. The fruit is a berry-like drupe that is about 2-3 cm in diameter, and turns from green to red when ripe.
Care Guide
Mimusops Zeyheri can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it requires the right care to thrive. Here are some tips on caring for this tree:Water: Water the tree deeply once a week, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Fertilization: Feed the tree with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, but do not fertilize during the dormant season.Soil: Mimusops Zeyheri prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This tree requires full sun to partial shade, but avoid exposing it to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.Hardiness Zones: Mimusops Zeyheri thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mimusops Zeyheri is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent these pests from infesting your tree, keep it healthy by providing the right care.
Habitat
Mimusops Zeyheri is native to South Africa, where it grows in bushveld, savanna, and woodland areas. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate mild drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mimusops Zeyheri grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate its roots and has proper drainage.Q: How often should I prune my Mimusops Zeyheri tree?
A: Prune your tree once a year during the dormant season to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.Q: What is the lifespan of Mimusops Zeyheri?
A: With proper care, Mimusops Zeyheri can live for up to 50 years.Q: Is Mimusops Zeyheri a fast-growing tree?
A: No, it is a slow-growing tree that can take up to 10 years to reach its maximum height.
Related Plants
Here are some plants related to Mimusops Zeyheri:- Mimusops caffra- Mimusops elengi- Palaquium gutta- Chrysophyllum cainito
References
– “Mimusops zeyheri (Harv. ex A.DC.) Miq.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 13 July 2021.- “Mimusops zeyheri.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 13 July 2021.- “Transvaal Red Milkwood – Mimusops zeyheri.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 13 July 2021.
