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Description
Olea Capensis, also known as Cape Olive, is a small evergreen tree that belongs to the Oleaceae family. It is native to South Africa, particularly in the Western and Eastern Cape regions. This tree is widely cultivated for its edible fruit, which is used to produce oil and pickles. Its leaves are also used to make tea, while its bark and roots are used for traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Olea |
Appearance
Olea Capensis can grow up to 10 meters tall, but it is commonly smaller, reaching only 2-5 meters. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and lanceolate, measuring 1-8 cm long and 0.5-3 cm wide. Its flowers are small, white, and fragrant, growing in clusters. Its fruit is a small, round, and fleshy drupe that turns black when ripe, measuring 10-15 mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Olea Capensis is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Olea Capensis can tolerate frost and drought, and it is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Olea Capensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by the following:
- Scale insects: These sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent this disease.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation. Apply fungicides to prevent and control it.
Habitat
Olea Capensis is found in various habitats, including fynbos, renosterveld, and karoo. It prefers well-drained soils and can grow in rocky or sandy areas. It is also commonly found in coastal regions and mountain slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Olea Capensis drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Olea Capensis can tolerate drought, but it still needs regular watering during the growing season.
Q: Can Olea Capensis grow in containers?
A: Yes, Olea Capensis can be grown in containers, but make sure to use well-draining soil and provide enough sunlight.
Q: Is Olea Capensis toxic to pets?
A: No, Olea Capensis is not toxic to pets.
Q: When is the best time to prune Olea Capensis?
A: Prune Olea Capensis in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Olea europaea (Common Olive)
- Olea laurifolia (Laurustinus)
- Olea paniculata (African Wild Olive)
- Olea woodiana (Wood’s African Olive)
References
- “Olea capensis.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2004, http://pza.sanbi.org/olea-capensis.
- “Olea capensis.” Mediterranean Garden Society, 2014, https://www.mediterraneangardensociety.org/plants/olea-capensis.html.
- “Olea capensis.” South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2018, https://www.sanbi.org/plant-of-the-week/olea-capensis/.
