Contents
Description
Nestegis Apetala is a species of evergreen tree that belongs to the Oleaceae family. It is native to New Zealand and is commonly known as the Narrow-leaved Nestegis or Ironwood. This plant can grow up to 10 meters in height and 3-4 meters in width. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and has a rough texture. The leaves are dark green, narrow, and pointed, with a length ranging from 2-8 cm. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and the fruit is a small, round, black drupe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Nestegis |
Appearance
Nestegis Apetala is a beautiful plant with a narrow and upright growth habit. The dark green leaves are glossy and pointed, and the bark has a rough texture. The small, greenish-white flowers bloom in spring and summer, and the fruit is a small, round, black drupe. This plant can grow up to 10 meters in height and 3-4 meters in width, making it a great choice for a shade tree or hedge.
Care Guide
Water: Nestegis Apetala prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry periods.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet soil. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Nestegis Apetala prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nestegis Apetala is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Common pests that can affect this plant include scale insects and aphids.
Habitat
Nestegis Apetala is native to New Zealand and is commonly found in coastal and lowland areas. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and along riverbanks. In cultivation, this plant is a popular choice for hedges and as a shade tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nestegis Apetala be grown in containers?
A: While this plant can be grown in containers, it is best suited for growing in the ground as it can grow quite large.
Q: When is the best time to prune Nestegis Apetala?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Is Nestegis Apetala a fast-growing plant?
A: This plant has moderate growth rate, and can grow up to 1-2 feet per year.
Q: Can Nestegis Apetala tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, this plant is tolerant of salt spray and is commonly found growing near the coast.
Related Plants
- Nestegis cunninghamii
- Nestegis montana
- Nestegis sandwicensis
References
- “Nestegis Apetala.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Retrieved from https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/nestegis-apetala/
- “Nestegis Apetala.” Plants of the World Online. Retrieved from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:610884-1
- “Narrow-leaved Nestegis.” San Marcos Growers. Retrieved from https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3292
