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marlberry
Scientific Name: Ardisia
Family: Myrsinaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Marlberry (Ardisia escallonioides)
Marlberry is a native plant often used in Florida and Caribbean landscapes. It's valued for both its aesthetic appeal and practical uses.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces black fruit that is described as edible, but with a taste ranging from "bad to almost good."
Considerations for Children
- The plant produces black fruit that is described as edible, but with a taste ranging from "bad to almost good."
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Ardisia escallonioides
- Common Names: Marlberry, Coralberry, Island Marlberry, Marble Berry, Dogberry
- Family: Primulaceae (formerly Myrsinaceae)
- Genus: Ardisia
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Florida and the Caribbean region.
- Also found in the West Indies and neighboring areas, including Barbados and Bermuda.
- In Florida, it grows in maritime hammocks, inland forests, and on dunes.
Ecological Role
- Ardisia elliptica, an Asian species, is noted as being invasive.
Morphological Characteristics
- Grows as an evergreen shrub or small tree.
- Typically reaches a height of 12 to 15 feet.
- Leaves are oval and elongate, measuring 2-5 inches.
Cultivation
- Can tolerate both full sun and deep shade.
- Suitable for commercial and residential landscapes as a specimen or accent shrub.