Albanian olive
danae racemosa
Also known as: ["False olive","Mediterranean olive"]
Overview
A slow-growing, evergreen shrub with arching stems and pinnate leaves, native to the Caucasus and parts of the Mediterranean.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Ruscaceae |
| Genus: | Danae |
| Botanical Name: | Danae racemosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in filtered light indoors; move outdoors in spring/summer with partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains for indoor protection.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, 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; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Protect from drafts; maintain moderate temps; avoid sudden changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes; division of clumps is also possible.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting with nodes.
- Apply hormone (optional).
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and encourage new growth; thin dense areas for better air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow; soil dries out faster.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild toxicity if they ingest the berries of Danae racemosa. The toxic principles, such as saponins, can cause gastrointestinal upset. While the toxicity is generally low, it is advisable to prevent ingestion to avoid discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Danae racemosa can cause mild toxicity in dogs if ingested. The toxic compounds, primarily saponins, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort and mild symptoms. The effects are generally not life-threatening but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDanae racemosa, commonly known as Alloeh wood, contains toxic compounds primarily in its berries. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort due to the presence of saponins and other irritants. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Danae racemosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How fast does Danae racemosa grow?
A: It is a slow-growing plant, requiring patience for significant size increase.
Q: Does Danae racemosa require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate some sun exposure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ruscaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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