Oncoba spinosa

Spiny Oncoba, Fried Egg Plant, Snuff-box Tree

Message of the Flower

Mental Chastity

The Mother’s Comment

Precious and magnificent in its purity.

Colour

White, yellow

Family

Salicaceae

Person who named the flower

Carolus Linnaeus

Flower Size

Up to 10 cm in diameter

Flower Texture

Waxy and smooth

Number of Petals

5

Floral Symmetry

Radial

Fragrance of Flower

Sweetly scented

Leaf Texture

Leathery

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Color

Dark green

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Shrub or small tree

Life Cycle

Perennial

Blooming Period

Spring to early summer

Climate

Tropical to subtropical

Water Requirements

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Soil Type

Well-drained, fertile soil

Temperature Ranges

Not frost-hardy

Sun or Shade

Full sun to partial shade

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Relatively pest-free, common fungal diseases in wet conditions

Pollinators

Bees, butterflies, other insects

Habitat

Native to Africa, found in savannas and woodlands

Role in the Ecosystem

Food and shelter for wildlife, important for pollinators

Quotations

None specified

Ornamental

Decorative flowers and unique appearance

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Wood used in tool making

Endangered Status

Not listed as endangered, may be locally threatened

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