Chrysophyllum Oliviforme

Description

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Chrysophyllum Oliviforme (Satinleaf) is a medium-sized tree or shrub native to Florida. Satinleaf reaches a height of up to 15 feet, but is twice as tall under ideal growing conditions. It has a moderately-dense oval to pyramidal crown with slightly drooping branches. Also, the trunk is showy with a thin reddish-brown scaly bark.

In addition, its simple glossy leaves are alternate, elliptic to oval, dark green above and bright copper color beneath. During a breeze, leaves give an attractive two-tone effect. Also, its small flowers are borne in axillary clusters. The inconspicuous, creamy yellow to white blooms are 3/8 inch and have 5 petals and 5 stamens.

Furthermore, the elongated, fleshy fruits are borne in small groups,  and are, edible. They transition to a dark purple when ripe. The fruit resemble olives with whitish flesh and contain several black seeds. Propagation is by seed or semi-hardwood cutting.

The heartwood is reddish, heavy and hard. Satin leaf does best in fertile well-drained clay, loam or sandy soils. Pruning is needed to maintain tree form and shape shrubs. Chrysophyllum Oliviforme (Satinleaf) has outstanding foliage and has applications for lawns, patios, as a screen, shade or specimen tree, along sidewalks and residential streets. It is also ideal for a native plant garden.

Other common names for Chrysophyllum Oliviforme, are: Palo de Canela, Damson plum, wild star-apple, saffron-tree, Caimitillo, Caimitillo de Perro, Camitillo Cimarró, Teta de Burra, Macanabo, and Caïmite Marron