Description

General aspect and origins - Phytolacca dioica is also known as ombu, belhambra or bella ombre. It is native to South America, and is a fast growing tree that can reach more than 45 ft (15 m) tall. Trunks of mature trees are massive. These trees are appreciated for the shade they provide.
Leaves - This tree has an evergreen to semi-decidious foliage. Leaves are ovate.
Flowers - Flowers of ombu are green-white, and are dioecious.

Culture

Ombu is a tree of subtropical origins, but will withstand negative temperatures such as 25-26°F (-3 to -4°C) and can thus be grown in USDA zones 9b and warmer. It may be tried in most sheltered places in zones 9a. All the parts of this tree are toxic.