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Elaeodendron spp.
Pantropical (Africa, Asia, Australia, Americas)
Overview
Elaeodendron spp. is a genus of about 40 evergreen trees and shrubs in the family Celastraceae, found through the tropics and subtropics of Africa, Madagascar, southern Asia, Australia, the Pacific, and the Americas. Plants range from multi-stemmed shrubs to trees about 50 ft (15 m) tall. The leathery leaves are usually opposite or nearly so, with finely toothed or smooth margins. Small greenish-white to yellow flowers are borne in branched clusters in the leaf axils, followed by olive-like drupes that ripen yellow, orange, or red, each holding a hard stone. Several species, including E. croceum and E. australe, contain cardiac glycosides and are poisonous if eaten. The dense, hard timber of some species is used for cabinetry and tool handles. Most species are frost-tender and restricted to warm-temperate and tropical zones 9 to 12. They establish slowly, and fallen fruit can stain paving beneath the canopy.
Native Range
Native to the tropics and subtropics worldwide, with species in sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar, South and Southeast Asia, eastern and northern Australia, the Pacific Islands, and the Caribbean and tropical Americas.Suggested Uses
Grown as evergreen shade and screening trees in frost-free gardens and parks. The dense canopy is used for windbreaks in coastal and subtropical settings. Fruiting branches draw birds.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10' - 50'
Width/Spread10' - 30'
Bloom Information
Small cream to greenish flowers appear mainly in spring and summer, shifting toward the wet season in tropical species. The flowers are inconspicuous against the foliage. Fruiting follows over several months.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Greenish-white to yellowFoliage Description
Dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight