False Olive

gymnosporia putterlickioides

Also known as: ["False Olive","Putterlickia"]

Family: Celastraceae Genus: Gymnosporia Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub or small tree native to southern Africa, known for its hardy nature and small, glossy leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Celastrales
Family: Celastraceae
Genus: Gymnosporia
Botanical Name: Gymnosporia putterlickioides

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • 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.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry 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 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry heat; shield from direct sun in summer.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with leaf nodes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems, pinch back tips for bushiness.

Pruning Plan

Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, encourage bushier form.

Tools

Clean pruners, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape evenly, avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh well-draining soil, ensure drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once 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 for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, stop in dormant season.

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

Yellowing of leaves can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, though specific reports for Gymnosporia putterlickioides are limited.

Wilting may result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, affecting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure.

Leaf spots may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Root or stem rot can occur due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that consume the berries of Gymnosporia putterlickioides may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The berries contain irritants that can affect the digestive tract of cats.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the berries. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of the berries of Gymnosporia putterlickioides can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds in the berries may cause irritation to the stomach and intestines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep berries away from dogs. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Gymnosporia putterlickioides contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The berries are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of berries. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Gymnosporia putterlickioides toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water this plant?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Celastraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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