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marlberry
Scientific Name: Ardisia japonica
Family: Myrsinaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Marlberry (Ardisia escallonioides)
Marlberry, scientifically known as Ardisia escallonioides, is a native plant prized for its ornamental qualities and ecological value. It is also referred to as Island Marlberry, marble berry, or dogberry.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces black fruit that is edible, though its taste is described as ranging from "bad to almost good."
Considerations for Children
- The plant produces black fruit that is edible, though its taste is described as ranging from "bad to almost good."
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Ardisia escallonioides
- Common Names: Marlberry, Island Marlberry, marble berry, dogberry
- Family: Primulaceae (formerly Myrsinaceae)
- Genus: Ardisia
- Synonyms: Ardisia paniculata
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Florida and the Caribbean region (West Indies and neighboring areas, including Barbados and Bermuda).
- Found in Central and South Florida, specifically in maritime hammocks, inland forests, and on dunes.
Ecological Role
- The text mentions an invasive species, Ardisia elliptica, which is Asian in origin. This highlights the importance of distinguishing between native and non-native Ardisia species.
Morphological Characteristics
- A 12- to 15-foot-tall shrub or small tree.
- Tall, columnar growth habit.
- Leaves are oval and elongate, measuring 2-5 [units not specified].
- Evergreen shrub or small tree.
- Alternate, simple, shiny, elliptic to obovate leaves, up to 15 cm, appearing clustered at the twig ends.
Cultivation and Uses
- Excellent specimen or accent shrub in commercial and residential landscapes.
- Can tolerate full sun or deep shade.
Further Information
- USF Herbarium Specimen Database
- Dave's Garden
- Monrovia
- ARKive
- The Institute for Regional Conservation