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Satinleaf Chrysophyllum oliviforme
Satinleaf is a medium-sized tree with a mature height of up to
30 feet. It is commonly used around town by people who appreciate its good
looks.
You can't help but notice its fine visual attributes as you
encounter them. In fact, some people measure the length of their trip by
how many satinleafs they pass:
"Oh, the pizza place is just down the street; it's about a three
satinleaf drive."
Or: "I had to quit that job. It took too long to get
there; it was a seventy-five satinleaf drive."
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Keep your eyes peeled for its distinctive foliage: shiny
olive on top, silky silvery gold underneath.
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It makes a nice street tree. |
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You might use one in your backyard as a shade tree, an
easier-to-manage alternative to live oak.
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The satinleaf in the photo at left was planted
by students at South Dade High School in Homestead in June, 2002.
Young satinleafs look like a branch stuck in the ground. After a
couple of years, they form a canopy, which the students will appreciate as
they walk along the front of the school. |
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Flowers are tiny axillary blooms, kind of shy.
You will have to stop and get out of your car and look carefully to see
them. Take a moment to inhale the fragrance. You might witness
pollinators visiting the flowers for the nectar. |
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At right are buds waiting for their cue to open. |
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Satinleaf is a cousin of the caimito Chrysophyllum
cainito, which is a popular fruit, well known among the people of the
Caribbean.
The fruit of the satinleaf is much smaller than the
caimito, just a little dark purple berry, about an inch in diameter.
We will add a photo of satinleaf fruit as soon as one becomes
available
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Below, we've got 'em in 10-gal. (left), about 8' ft.
high, and (right) in 25-gal., 10'+ in height.
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