Smyrna mock orange
phillyrea latifolia
Also known as: ["Smyrna olive","wild olive"]
Overview
An evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region, known for its leathery leaves and small, fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Genus: | Phillyrea |
| Botanical Name: | Phillyrea latifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot, or as a container plant in a sunny patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; suitable for Mediterranean climates.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to stimulate new shoots.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; place in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade if grown in containers.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight indoors; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid frequent shallow watering, and adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers mild to warm temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in stable, moderate conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Always fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth in late summer or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall when stems are mature but still flexible.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix with added sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; check for root development after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth; avoid excessive pruning of mature wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood; best done after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution (bleach or alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/diseased wood first; avoid pruning in extreme weather.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in shaded area for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds or containers for better control.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold; wilting or stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or damage if below 20°F (-6°C); prolonged cold can lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or move containers indoors; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent cold-induced root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature leaf drop, especially if combined with dry soil.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; dilute to half strength; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring before new growth; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume seeds or berries of Phillyrea latifolia. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of seeds and berries of Phillyrea latifolia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPhillyrea latifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phillyrea latifolia suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and can thrive in coastal environments.
Q: Does Phillyrea latifolia require regular pruning?
A: Pruning is not strictly necessary but can be done to maintain shape or encourage bushier growth.
Q: Does Phillyrea latifolia produce edible fruits?
A: It produces small, drupe-like fruits, but they are not typically consumed by humans and have a bitter taste.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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