Dovyalis zeyheri
TAXONOMY
FamilySalicaceae
GenusDovyalis
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Dovyalis zeyheri, commonly known as the Kei apple, is a shrub or small tree native to subtropical regions of Southern Africa. It belongs to the family Salicaceae and the genus Dovyalis. The plant is known for its edible, tangy fruits and is often used in hedges or as a fruit-bearing ornamental plant.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Aberia Tristis
Wild Apricot
Aberia zeyheri
Dovyalis tristis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
The Kei apple thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate dry conditions but benefits from occasional watering. The plant does well in environments with moderate humidity and should be protected from frost.Soil
Dovyalis zeyheri prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soil that is not too heavy or waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth. Fertilize sparingly to avoid overfeeding.Repotting
If grown in a container, repot the Kei apple every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Dovyalis zeyheri can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination. Cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood stems and rooted in a suitable growing medium.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.Toxicity
The Kei apple is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is advisable to keep it out of reach of small children and pets to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
The Kei apple is a versatile plant that can be used as a hedge, ornamental, or fruit-bearing tree. Its fruits are rich in vitamin C and can be eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies. The plant is also drought-tolerant once established, making it a good choice for xeriscaping.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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