Elaeocarpus serratus, known as Ceylon Olive, is a medium-sized evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka and southern India. It plays a significant role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a mid-canopy layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for various species. The tree's glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers attract pollinators, enhancing biodiversity. Historically, the fruits have been used in traditional Sri Lankan and Indian cuisine, particularly in pickles and preserves. In agroforestry systems, Ceylon Olive acts as a windbreak and helps prevent soil erosion with its robust root system. It is compatible with guild companions such as citrus and guava, which benefit from its shade and soil stabilization properties.
Growing Details
Ceylon Olive thrives in well-drained, loamy soils enriched with organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating compost to improve fertility. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as citrus and guava can be grown alongside to create a diverse ecosystem. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest fruits when they are fully mature, typically from November to January. Store harv
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Elaeocarpus serratus</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Sri Lanka and southern India
applicable geo region: Tropical Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of November for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The fruits of the Ceylon Olive are consumed fresh or used in pickles and preserves. They are often incorporated into traditional dishes and can be processed into juices and jams. The fruit is available seasonally from November to January and is rich in vitamin C, which aids in boosting immunity.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Ceylon Olive is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. The fruit is believed to aid digestion and improve appetite. It is typically consumed as a fresh fruit or in the form of a decoction. Caution is advised for individuals with sensitive stomachs due to its sour nature.
health concerns: The sour nature of the fruit may cause discomfort in individuals with sensitive stomachs.
other uses: The wood of Ceylon Olive is used for making small tools and as firewood. The tree provides shade and is valued in landscaping for its ornamental appeal.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Elaeocarpus serratus
common names: Ceylon Olive; Veralu; Wild Olive
family: Elaeocarpaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Elaeocarpus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 15.0 m
max width: 8.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Ceylon Olive thrives in well-drained, loamy soils enriched with organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating compost to improve fertility. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as citrus and guava can be grown alongside to create a diverse ecosystem. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest fruits when they are fully mature, typically from November to January. Store harv
Potential Disturbances: Ceylon Olive is generally pest-resistant but can be affected by scale insects and fungal diseases. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control pest populations naturally. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Organic neem oil sprays can be used to manage scale insects effectively.
Growth Timeline
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