Diospyros ferrea is commonly in the market as Bantolinao. While I have heard other names, that is the most commnon. A variety to market would be the “Red Top” Bantolinao.
I like the plant for the dramatic black bark and trunk. I an not sure how I am going to work it into a bonsai plant, but I just love the color.
Diospyros ferrea specifics
- Core Identification & Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Diospyros ferrea
- Common Name: Bantolinao, Bantulinao, Ebony, Ironwood
- Family: Ebenaceae
- Varietals: Red top Bantalinao
- Habitat/Range: From West Africa, to india and on to Southeastern Asia and Polynesia
- Morphology & Characteristics
- Growth Habit: Small to Medium Tree; Beautiful dark bark
- Leaves: Fleshy round and shiny dark green leaves
- Flowers: So small
- Fruit/Seed: Round and black when ripe
- Stem/Bark: Ebony dark black bark and branches
- Growth:
- Bonsai Notes
- Sun Exposure: Full sun 6-8 hours daily. This plant can stand the afternoon sun.
- Water Use: moderate water, Drought tolerant
- Soil Mix: Akadama, Pumice, Lava Rock
- Fertilizing: balanced fertilizer every 4 weeks during the active growing season (spring through autumn).
- Styling and Maintenance
- Pruning: Regular pruning is essential.
- Defoliation:
- Wiring: Branches can be wired year-round, but monitor the wire closely may scar if the wire “bites” in during periods of fast growth.
Gallery images
Firstly, we are uploading pictures of our plants to show the parts of a plant that may help in identification. Secondly, we only have so many plants and my photography skills are not actually skillful. Finally, if it would help to see another angle or view, view us a message and we will attempt to get the right picture perspective.
