Diospyros whyteana

Also Known As

Black-bark
Wild Coffee

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

H: 10'-16'
W: 6'-8'

planting zones

9a-11

Diospyros whyteana plant details

Diospyros whyteana is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring and summer cream flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Features glossy texture. Attracts birds. Grows well with sun - shade and even moisture - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Diospyros whyteana

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: ebenaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 6 FT - 8 FT - wide, 10 FT - 16 FT - tall
Flowers: cream blooms in spring and summer
Uses: edible, fragrant, hedge

GROWING CONDITIONS for Diospyros whyteana

USDA Zones: 9a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - low
Resistant to: heat
Soil needs: rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Let me introduce to you a tough plant from South Africa that fixes the ever impossible dark-shaded-corner-where-nothing-will-fill-in. Ta-da! Problem solved. This small tree or shrub takes both strong light & dark shade & has dark green glossy EVERGREEN leaves that make a marvelous backdrop for where there just isn’t enough light to get other things to deal. Dark grey smooth bark is also attractive, new growth is bronzy & red & flowers are inconspicuous but fragrant! As a super bonus, the berries that follow the flowers in funny, persistent, papery balloon-like pods are a beautiful bright red, very attractive to birds & can be roasted & used as a substitute for coffee. Tolerant of most soils, it prefers regular water. A relatively slow growing plant, it can be pruned to shape & size, even as a hedge!