🌿 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
Due to its slow growth and rarity, Diospyros tessellaria is not typically used in permaculture for widespread cultivation. Its primary value lies in its extremely dense and durable wood, which can be used for high-value craft projects, inlays, and other specialty wood applications. It is not edible or traditionally used medicinally. Could be incorporated into a food forest design for its long-term wood production value if space allows.
Permapeople description
Diospyros tessellaria, also known as Mauritius ebony, is a species of flowering tree in the family Ebenaceae that is endemic to Mauritius. It is a slow-growing tree with very hard, black wood.
Botanical description
Diospyros tessellaria is a slow-growing, evergreen tree native to Mauritius. It can reach heights of 10-20 meters, although cultivated specimens are often smaller. The trunk is typically straight and cylindrical with dark, fissured bark. The leaves are alternate, simple, and elliptic to obovate, with a leathery texture. Small, cream-colored, bell-shaped flowers are produced, followed by small, globose fruits. The heartwood is a distinctive black, exceptionally hard, and fine-grained. Sapwood is a lighter color.
Companion planting
Information on specific companion plants is limited, but as a tree species, it would likely benefit from a diverse understory planting that provides shade, nutrient cycling, and pest protection. Avoid planting close to aggressively competitive species.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily by seed, although germination rates can be low and slow. Cuttings are also possible, but success rates are typically limited. Grafting is another potential method to propagate desirable clones.
History and traditions
Historically, Ebony of Mauritius was highly prized for its exceptionally dark and dense wood. It was heavily exploited for furniture, musical instruments, and other luxury items, leading to its near extinction in the wild. Traditional uses largely revolved around its wood's unique properties for carving and crafting.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs typically during the Mauritian summer (December-February). Fruit matures several months after flowering. Harvesting of wood only occurs after the tree has reached a mature size, which may take many decades. Planting can occur year-round in suitable climates, avoiding periods of extreme heat or drought.