Dovyalis hebecarpa
TAXONOMY
FamilySalicaceae
GenusDovyalis
Zone10
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Dovyalis hebecarpa, commonly known as Ceylon gooseberry or ketembilla, is a shrub or small tree native to tropical regions. It belongs to the family Salicaceae and is known for its edible, dark purple fruits. The plant thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and can grow up to 6 meters in height.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Aberia Gardneri
Ketembilla
Aberia hebecarpa
Rumea hebecarpa
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD2,250
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Ceylon gooseberry requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage fruit production.Harvest
Dovyalis hebecarpa, commonly known as Ceylon gooseberry, should be harvested when the fruits are fully ripe, which is indicated by their deep purple to black color. The fruits are typically ready for harvest about 150 days after flowering. To harvest, gently twist or cut the fruits from the branches to avoid damaging the plant. It is important to handle the fruits carefully as they are delicate and can bruise easily. Harvesting should be done in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, which can cause the fruits to spoil more quickly. Ensure that the fruits are stored in a cool, dry place immediately after harvesting to maintain their quality.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sand can be ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to support healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repot the plant when it outgrows its current container, usually every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Propagate Dovyalis hebecarpa through seeds or cuttings. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until germination. For cuttings, take semi-hardwood cuttings and root them in a moist, well-draining medium.Pruning
Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage fruit production. Remove any dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Pruning is best done during the dormant season or after fruiting.Toxicity
Dovyalis hebecarpa is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with any plant, it is advisable to keep it out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
The fruits of Dovyalis hebecarpa are rich in vitamin C and can be eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies. The plant can also be grown as a hedge or ornamental shrub in tropical and subtropical gardens.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
