Description
Elaeocarpus pentadactylus (also called Five-fingered Elaeocarpus, among many other common names) is a medium-sized evergreen tree, native to India and Sri Lanka. It grows up to 15 m tall and has a dense, rounded crown. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptic-oblong in shape. It is found in moist forests, along streams, and in other wet habitats.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Elaeocarpus pentadactylus is a small, white, bell-shaped flower with five petals. The seed is a small, black, round seed. The seedlings are small, green, and have a single, oval-shaped leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Elaeocarpus pentadactylus can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained seed-raising mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken from semi-ripe wood and rooted in a mix of sand and peat. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Where to Find Elaeocarpus pentadactylus
Elaeocarpus pentadactylus can be found in tropical and subtropical forests in India, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Islands.