Black ebony
Diospyros tessellariafam. Rrosaceae
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Pl. DF68 — Diospyros tessellaria
Diospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellariaDiospyros tessellaria
IOverview
Overview
Black ebony (Diospyros tessellaria) is a member of the rose family and is native to Mauritius. This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and thrives in full sun with moist soil that ranges from light sandy to heavy clay. It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it well-suited for tropical climates. Known for its edible fruit, black ebony provides a valuable resource for the local ecosystem and human communities alike. One distinctive feature of this tree is its dark, almost black bark, which adds an intriguing contrast to its lush green foliage.
Quick answers
What is Black ebony?
Black ebony (Diospyros tessellaria) is a member of the rose family and is native to Mauritius. This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and thrives in full sun with moist soil that ranges from light sandy to heavy clay. It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it well-suited for tropical climates.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Black ebony thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows to a height of 15 meters and is hardy in temperate regions with a range from zones 10-12. For propagation, the plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Black ebony for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Black ebony in a sunny spot for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a container if starting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds or transplant young plants during spring when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before outdoor planting. Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a partially shaded area if direct sun is too intense.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly to shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young plants to encourage a strong structure. Harvest fruit in late summer or early fall when ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun without acclimation, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough space for growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Black ebony (Diospyros tessellaria) is edible and can be consumed raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is eaten fresh but can also be dried for later use. SKIP
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Africa1 region
native (1)Mauritius
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
1 related
See also
1 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rrosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rrosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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