Family

Phytolaccaceae

Origin

Central America and  South America

Description

Imposing semi-deciduous tree, fast growing up to 20 m tall, whose crown can reach 15-30 m in diameter, characterized by gnarled roots emerging from the ground near the stem and by a short and stocky trunk, divided into several branches up to 2 m wide.

The leaves are alternate, ovate-lanceolate, mucronate at the apex, green with reddish median vein, petiolate.

The unisexual flowers on distinct plants are small, yellowish-white, gathered in pendulous clusters; the males have 20-30 stamens, the females have an ovary of 7-10 welded carpels.

The fruits are fleshy berries, brown in color when ripe.

Flowering period

It blooms between spring and summer.

It is cultivated as a shade tree due to its imposing posture, expanded crown and long-lasting foliage. In Italy, the species is wild on the island of Salina.

It is hardly attacked by animal parasites.

It is a particularly long-lived species whose age is difficult to prove since the wood has no annual circles. The plant also shows a very remarkable resistance to fire because its fabrics are particularly rich in water (over 80% in the branches and in the stem); this means that while the green parts do not burn, the dry ones do not give off flames.

Pedoclimatic needs

Plant resistant to dryness and undemanding to the type of substrate, it prefers sunny exposures and is particularly resistant to saltiness.  Temperate weather

Sowing

All year round in a heated greenhouse. In spring outdoors in a sheltered place.

Soak the seeds in warm water for 48 hours (change the water once) sow in a sandy compost; cover the seeds with a 2 mm layer of soil. Always keep moist; Cover the seedbed with a glass plate, keep in a warm place and in the shade. Germination in 6 weeks.

Family

Phytolaccaceae

Origin

Central South America

Description

 The tree has an umbrella-like canopy that spreads to a girth of 12 to 15 meters (40 to 50 feet) and can attain a height of 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet). The ombú grows fast but being herbaceous its wood is soft and spongy enough to be cut with a knife. Because of this, it is also used in the art of bonsai, as it is easily manipulated to create the desired effect.

Cultivation requirements

is a tree for mild climates, undemanding in soil fertility and resistant to sea winds. The tree is reputed to grow rapidly to its preferred height but is fairly aggressive in gardens, with root suckers appearing readily above the soil. It is resistant to locusts and ants and will withstand hurricanes and prolonged heat and drought. Full sun, Partial Shade

Seed time

All the year in greenhouse. In spring outdoor  in repaired place