Mexican olive - Cordia boissieri (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Mexican olive

Also known as: Anacahuita, White cordia

The Cordia boissieri is a flowering shrub that can reach a height of up to 5 to 7 m with its symmetrical round crown measuring between 3 to 5 m in diameter. Its fruit is sweet but slightly toxic when fresh and can cause dizziness in humans. Jellies made from its fruit are safe to eat while the syrup is also made to dye cloth.

Scientific classification

Species

Mexican olive (Cordia boissieri)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

5 m to 7 m

Plant Height

4.5 m to 9 m

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

Brown

Stem Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Mexican olive

Distribution of Mexican olive

Distribution Map

Mexican olive naturally thrives in the warmer parts of North America, predominantly within major regions of its native continent. It has also been successfully cultivated in similar climates beyond its indigenous range, though its introduced distribution is less extensive compared to its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Submontane scrub, tropical deciduous forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Healing, Peace, Fertility

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Toxicity

Mexican olive poses a mild toxicity risk to both cats and dogs. Consumption of its fruit in large amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset or signs of illness. Pet owners should monitor and prevent their pets from eating these fruits and seek immediate veterinary care if symptoms of distress appear after ingestion.

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Quickly Identify Mexican olive

Voluptuous, rounded silhouette up to 15-25 feet (4.5-7.6 meters) in height and width.

Ovate leaves, up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) long, gray-green above, paler underneath.

White, funnel-shaped blooms with yellow centers and crepe-like texture, 2 inches (5 cm) wide.

Gray bark, distinctive hue, and olive-like yellow-green fruit.

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Care Guide for Mexican olive

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Mexican olive prefers well-drained soils and can endure drought, thriving in semi-arid climates. Watering should occur biweekly to balance moisture and drought tolerance. Typically grown outdoors, mexican olive conserves water in its tissues, allowing it to survive summer's heat and temperature variations.

Fertilize: Fertilizing mexican olive with balanced nutrition supports growth and flowering. Use a slow-release formula in spring and mid-summer, following package instructions. Adjust frequency for seasons, reducing in fall and winter. Avoid over-fertilization and monitor growth to tailor practices for optimal health.

Pruning: Mexican olive features vibrant white flowers and resilience to drought. Prune in early spring to remove dead branches and shape the plant, promoting airflow and enhancing blooms. Use clean tools to prevent disease and consult horticultural guides for best practices.

Propagation: Mexican olive features white, bell-shaped flowers and olive-like fruit, thriving in varied environments. For propagation, sow seeds in well-draining soil under warm conditions, maintaining consistent moisture. Once germinated, provide balanced light for seedlings before transferring them to permanent locations for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot mexican olive every 2-3 years in spring to encourage growth. Use a large, sturdy pot and well-draining soil. After repotting, place mexican olive in partial shade and water sparingly to prevent root rot. Remember, mexican olive benefits from extra space and care!

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Images of Mexican olive

Distribution of Mexican olive

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Mexican olive

Care Guide for Mexican olive

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