Ardisia elliptica
From Bugwoodwiki
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Overview
- Appearance
- Ardisia elliptica is a tall shrub or small tree that can reach heights of 20 ft. (6.1 m).
- Foliage
- The leathery leaves are 3-6 in. (7.6-15.2 cm) long, 1 in. (2.5 cm) wide, elliptical and entire.
- Flowers
- Most flowering occurs in the summer, but flowering can continue year-round. The flowers are small, pink, star-shaped and hang in clusters from the axils of the leaves.
- Ecological Threat
- Ardisia elliptica grows well in low, wet areas and in old fields. This species is shade-tolerant. Birds eat the fruit and so disperse the seeds. Ardisia elliptica is a native of Southeast Asia and was introduced into the United States as an ornamental in the late 1800’s.
Resources
Global Invasive Species Database. 2011. Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) of the IUCN Species Survival Commission [1]
University of Florida, IFAS Extension, Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants [2]
CABI Invasive Species Compendium [3]
Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council [4]
USDA NRCS PLANTS [5]
USDA ARS GRIN [6]
Images from Bugwood.org
