Maerua oblongifolia, commonly known as Desert Caper or Oblong-leaved Maerua, is a shrub-like plant that grows up to 3 meters long. Its leaves are oblong-ovate, 2-4.5 cm long, and 0.7-2.5 cm broad, with entire edges.
The plant produces greenish-white flowers in dense, corymb-like racemes, featuring radiating greenish stamens. The flowers are followed by moniliform berries containing many globose, tuberculate seeds.
Habitat
This plant is native to Africa, Asia, and Australia, thriving in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in dry, sandy soils and scrublands.
Planting and Care
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Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade, with direct sunlight being ideal.
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Soil: Requires well-drained soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
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Watering: Regular watering is necessary, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
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Maintenance: Occasional pruning is beneficial to remove dead or damaged stems and maintain the plant’s appearance.
Additional Information
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Medicinal Properties: The root resembles licorice in appearance and taste, possessing alternative, tonic, and medicinal properties, used to treat snake bites, scorpion stings, and as an anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent.
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Ornamental Use: Maerua oblongifolia is valued for its unique appearance and is often cultivated in gardens and landscapes for its ornamental value.
