Madagascar Olive Tree (Noronhia emarginata)

Madagascar Olive Tree

Noronhia emarginata

Shiny evergreen foliage brings year-round calm to indoor spaces. Dense compact tree; common name: Madagascar Olive Tree.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid prolonged direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 18–25℃; protect from temperatures below 10℃ to avoid leaf drop
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Leathery, elliptical, glossy dark green leaves with distinct notched (emarginate) tips.
  • Flower: Small, star-shaped white blooms with a faint sweet fragrance.
  • Stem/Bark: Slender gray-brown stems that develop woody, textured bark as the plant matures.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy to prevent nutrient buildup in soil

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solid peels to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown branches in early spring to maintain a compact, rounded shape.
  • Remove yellow or damaged leaves regularly to improve airflow and reduce pest risk.
  • Pinch new growth tips to encourage bushier foliage and prevent leggy growth.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor tree; outdoor shade tree in warm, frost-free regions