Diospyros ebenum Seeds | Ebony
LATIN NAME: Diospyros ebenum
COMMON NAME: Ebony, Indian Ebony
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Ebony, Diospyros ebenum is a tree in the ebony family (Ebenaceae), native to tropical forests of the south Asia and the southeast Asia, while it has been valued for its dense, black, heartwood for thousands of years. At maturity it stands about Twenty metres. Pollinating insects take to the flowers at once, adding a little wildlife interest to its garden value. All of this makes Ebony a satisfying plant to grow and to get to know.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Diospyros ebenum ranges from the botany of the ebony family to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. Ebony has a real and distinguished place in research. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.
Uses & Benefits
Ebony works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Ebony is a medium-sized to large, evergreen tree of tropical forests, bearing glossy, dark-green leaves and small, white, fragrant flowers, followed by black fruits. To raise ebony, sow seeds in pots of moist, open soil in a warm, bright place, keep them gently watered, and grow little trees on in the warmth. A plant that has settled in will get along with only routine care.
Persimmons are carotenoid-rich fruit, and their tannins made unripe fruit a traditional astringent; ebony relatives yield the world’s blackest cabinet wood.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Ebony under ordinary good conditions. Sow the seed evenly over the surface and cover lightly, using a loose, well-drained seed compost, and keep it just moist in bright light until the seedlings are well up. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Ebony, Indian Ebony is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. Sun, free drainage and a patient first year are all it really requires.
Related Reading
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