Phytolacca dioica (Bella Sombra)

Botanical Information

FamilyPhytolaccaceae
GenusPhytolacca
Speciesdioica
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (evergreen)
OriginArgentina.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer		Young leaves and shoots can be eaten cooked but never raw. Mature leaves and fruit are poisonous. Fruits are used in the production of some red inks in its native habitat.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone8 - 11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneCool season protection required under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH4 - H1c
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-10
Temperature (°F)5
Height4 m
Spread3 - 4 m
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

ShapeUpright rounded crown.
LandscapeFlowering tree, accent tree, mass plantings, tropical groves, informal gardens or as a specimen.
PropagationSeed or semi-hardwood cuttings.
CultivationPlant in moist but well-draining soil of any type or acidity in full sun to partial shade. Does not do well with dry frosts.
Bark/Stem DescriptionExtremely coarse bark with defined cracks and crevices.
Leaf DescriptionLanceolate leaves with a rounded apex that grow in panicles of roughly 4 - 12 units along branches.
Flower DescriptionSmall insignificant flowers borne before fruits.
Fruit DescriptionSmall, round crabapple-like fruit.
Colour DescriptionSage green foliage with very light green stems. Tan to brownish-tan bark. Small insignificant yellow-white flowers. Crimson red fruit.
Texture DescriptionCoarse.

Photographs