Contents
Description
Scutia Myrtina, commonly known as the African scurf-pea, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Rhamnaceae. It is native to Africa and is found in many parts of the continent, including South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. The tree can grow up to 6 meters tall and has a rough, brown bark. The leaves of Scutia Myrtina are oval-shaped, with a glossy green surface and a pale underside. The flowers are small, white or cream-colored, and appear in clusters from spring to summer. The fruit is a small, round berry that turns from green to red as it matures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Scutia |
Appearance
Scutia Myrtina is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has a rough, brown bark and oval-shaped leaves that are glossy green on the upper surface and pale underneath. The flowers are small and white or cream-colored, and appear in clusters from spring to summer. The fruit is a small, round berry that turns from green to red as it matures.
Care Guide
Scutia Myrtina is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. However, it grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize Scutia Myrtina once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It can also tolerate a range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scutia Myrtina is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or by using insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Scutia Myrtina is native to Africa and is found in many parts of the continent, including South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It grows in a range of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and rocky outcrops.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scutia Myrtina a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Scutia Myrtina is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Q: How tall can Scutia Myrtina grow?
A: Scutia Myrtina can grow up to 6 meters tall.
Q: What is the fruit of Scutia Myrtina?
A: The fruit of Scutia Myrtina is a small, round berry that turns from green to red as it matures.
Q: What are the common pests of Scutia Myrtina?
A: The common pests of Scutia Myrtina are spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.
Related Plants
- Scutia Commersonii
- Scutia Myrtinaefolia
- Scutia Villosa
References
- “Scutia Myrtina.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 28 Mar. 2021.
- “Scutia Myrtina.” Flora of Zimbabwe. n.p., n.d. Web. 28 Mar. 2021.
- “Scutia Myrtina.” PlantNET. n.p., n.d. Web. 28 Mar. 2021.
