Overview
Osmanthus megacarpus (Small) Small ex Little is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Oleaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, found mainly in dry, rocky areas.
Common Names
Osmanthus megacarpus is commonly known by the names of Big pod Osmanthus, Wild olive, Osmanthus, and Devilwood.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 10-15 feet tall with leaves that are glossy, leathery, and elliptical in shape. The leaves are dark green in color, 1-4 inches long and up to 1 inch wide. The flowers are small, about 1/8 inch long, and pale yellow-white in color. The plant produces a large, woody, and showy fruit or drupe that is generally 1-1/2 inches long and orange-red in color.
Uses
Osmanthus megacarpus is used in landscaping, mainly because of its evergreen foliage and its fragrant spring flowers. It is often used as a screening or background plant and also as a hedge. The fruit of this plant is used for medicinal purposes such as treating fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. Some Native American tribes have used the bark and leaves to treat chest congestion and rash in babies. The wood is also used for making tool handles and fence posts because of its durability and strength.
Light Requirements
Osmanthus megacarpus prefers partial to full sunlight. Direct exposure to strong sunlight might damage the plant’s leaves. It grows a lot better if positioned in a location with adequate shelter from hot afternoon sun.
Temperature Requirements
Osmanthus megacarpus is cold-hardy, making it suitable for growing in USDA zones 8-10. It is capable of withstanding temperatures as low as 10°F. It grows well in moderate temperatures between 60°F to 75°F, but can tolerate temperatures up to 95°F.
Soil Requirements
Osmanthus megacarpus flourishes best in well-draining soils. Clay soils should be supplemented with peat moss and sand to enhance aeration and drainage. The soils should be rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Constantly water the plant until a suitable root system has been established.
Cultivation Methods of Osmanthus megacarpus
Osmanthus megacarpus is a versatile and hardy plant that grows well in a variety of soil types and climatic conditions. It is best to plant it in well-drained soil and a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The ideal temperature range for Osmanthus megacarpus is between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
Watering Needs of Osmanthus megacarpus
The watering needs of Osmanthus megacarpus depend on the weather and the soil type. However, in general, this plant prefers moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. The frequency of watering may reduce during the dormant season. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather. Ensure that you do not flood the plant with too much water.
Fertilization of Osmanthus megacarpus
Osmanthus megacarpus plants require regular feeding to maintain healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 in early spring before new growth begins. You can also apply organic fertilizers such as compost or well-decomposed manure to enrich the soil. Repeat the feeding in early summer to promote more blooming.
Pruning of Osmanthus megacarpus
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of Osmanthus megacarpus plants and encourage better blooming. It is best to prune the plant after the blooming season, around late spring or early summer. You can remove any dead or damaged branches and cut back the tips of overgrown branches to keep the plant compact. Light pruning can also be done during the growing season to remove any unwanted new growth.
Propagation of Osmanthus megacarpus
Osmanthus megacarpus, also known as the island osmanthus or Catalina perfume plant, can be propagated through various methods. The most common methods include seeds, softwood cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds can be collected from the plant when the fruit turns black and is fully ripe. Clean the seeds and soak them in water overnight. Sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mix at a depth of 1/4 inch and keep the soil moist. Place the pot in a warm, bright area, but not in direct sunlight. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Softwood Cuttings
Softwood cuttings are taken in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Take cuttings of 4-6 inches in length and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert it into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded area with high humidity. Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by Air Layering
Air layering is a method that takes longer but guarantees that the propagated plant will be identical to the parent plant. Choose a mature stem and remove a ring of bark about 6 inches from the tip. Cover the wound with damp sphagnum moss and wrap the area with plastic wrap. Keep the moss moist and roots will develop within 6-12 months. Once roots have developed, cut the stem below the root ball and plant it in a well-draining soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Osmanthus Megacarpus
Osmanthus megacarpus, also known as the Big-Pod Osmanthus, is generally a hardy evergreen shrub. However, the plant is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing the infected leaves and spraying a fungicide on the plant. It is also important to avoid overhead watering, as the moisture can promote the spread of the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, leading to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. It can be managed by improving soil drainage, avoiding overwatering, and applying a fungicide to the soil around the plant.
Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight is another disease that affects Osmanthus megacarpus. It causes the leaves to develop brown spots and eventually wilt and die. The disease can be managed by removing the infected leaves and spraying a copper-based fungicide on the plant.
Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects are common pests that suck on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to yellow and drop. They can be managed by removing the affected leaves and spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or oil.
Aphids: Aphids are another common pest that affect Osmanthus megacarpus. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaf curling and stunted growth. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap or oil.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellow stippling and webbing. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or oil. It is also important to keep the plant well-watered, as dry conditions can make spider mite infestations worse.
In conclusion, Osmanthus megacarpus is generally a hardy plant that can be prone to certain diseases and pests. Regular inspection and maintenance, including proper watering and fertilization, can help prevent and manage these issues.
