🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Ebony wood is highly prized for its hardness, density, and fine texture, making it suitable for carving, musical instruments (especially fingerboards and piano keys), and ornamental objects. The tree provides shade and acts as a windbreak in permaculture systems. While not typically consumed, some Diospyros species have edible fruits, but Diospyros ebenum is primarily valued for its timber. There are no significant cultivars relevant to permaculture applications besides wild-type variations in wood density and coloration.
Permapeople description
Diospyros ebenum is a species of ebony tree in the family Ebenaceae. It is native to southern India and Sri Lanka.
Botanical description
Diospyros ebenum is a slow-growing, evergreen tree typically reaching 65-80 feet in height, with a dense, rounded crown. The bark is black and fissured. The leaves are alternate, leathery, oblong-elliptic, and dark green. The flowers are small, unisexual, and bell-shaped; male and female flowers are usually borne on separate trees (dioecious). The fruit is a small, globose berry, turning black when ripe, and contains several seeds. The heartwood is jet-black, while the sapwood is yellowish-white and sharply demarcated. Ebony is native to southern India and Sri Lanka.
Companion planting
Due to its slow growth and focus on timber production, specific companion planting strategies are not well-documented. As a large tree, it would likely benefit from nitrogen-fixing plants and ground covers to improve soil health and reduce competition from weeds. Consider plants adapted to shady conditions beneath its canopy.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through seeds, although germination rates can be low. Cuttings are difficult to root. Grafting onto other Diospyros species may be possible, but not commonly practiced.
History and traditions
Ebony has a long history of use in woodworking and ornamentation, dating back to ancient Egypt. It was highly valued by artisans and craftsmen in various cultures for its beauty, durability, and ability to take a fine polish. In some traditions, ebony was considered a symbol of power, wealth, and prestige. It has been used in royal furniture, religious artifacts, and ceremonial objects.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs primarily during the rainy season (typically May to August). Harvesting for timber can occur year-round, but is best done during the dry season (December to March). Seed collection follows fruit ripening.