South African Ebony are woody shrubs to trees from the same genus as the kaki plum (Diospyros kaki). Most species suit as most ornamental, evergreen container plants with leathery, glossy foliage and decorative fruits in late autumn and winter. In contrast to the related kaki plum South African species in general do not produce palatable, yet poisonous fruits ! These beautiful and robust foliage plants are easily grown in any rich, well drained, preferably rocky soil in full sun throughout the year. In winter keep plants drier at a minimum of some 12°C. Prior to sowing scarify seed (e.g. carefully scratch the seed coat with fine sandpaper) and soak them in luke warm water for some 48h. Sow seeds flat in any rich, well drained soil at a minimum of some 20°C. Keep pots very sunny and soil always slightly moist until germination occurs, then keep soil drier. All are USDA Climate Zone 10. 7 seeds per package. |