Ceylon Ebony (Diospyros ebenum)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; provide dappled shade during intense midday tropical sun to prevent leaf scorch

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Watering Water deeply when the top 10–15 cm of soil dries out; avoid prolonged waterlogging to prevent root rot

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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical temperatures; cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C

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Leaf: Leathery, glossy dark green leaves, elliptical to oblong, 5–15 cm long with smooth margins
Flower: Small, creamy-white, fragrant axillary clusters with 4–6 petals
Stem/Bark: Mature bark is dark brown to black; heartwood is dense, jet-black ebony with fine grain

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated

Fertilization

Apply balanced organic fertilizer once monthly. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of wood development

Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burn

Pruning

Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in early spring to maintain structural integrity
Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
Shape young trees to establish a strong, upright trunk for stable growth

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects

Humans: No reported toxic effects on humans from ingestion or contact

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Culture: Ebony wood symbolizes luxury, durability, and craftsmanship; historically used for royal artifacts and musical instruments

Usage: High-value timber for furniture, carvings, and stringed instrument fingerboards; ornamental shade tree in tropical gardens