Large mock olive (Notelaea longifolia, Choix, De Pl., T. 25. 1803)

Family: Oleaceae

Author: Vent.

Bibliography: Choix, De Pl., T. 25. 1803

Year: 1804

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Notelaea

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. New South Wales

Description

The Large Mock Olive, scientifically known as Notelaea longifolia, is a notable species within the Oleaceae family. This evergreen shrub or small tree is predominantly observed in Eastern New South Wales, flourishing in the region’s temperate climate and varied landscapes.

Characterized by its long, slender leaves and dense foliage, the Large Mock Olive provides valuable greenery and habitat in its native ecosystems. The leaves are lance-shaped, with a glossy dark green surface and a lighter underside, contributing to its aesthetic appeal. During its blooming period, the Notelaea longifolia produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are usually pale yellow to creamy white in color. These flowers, though modest in appearance, play a vital role in the plant’s reproductive cycle.

The fruit of the Large Mock Olive is a small, blue to black drupe, which serves as a food source for various birds and wildlife. This fruit, while not significant for human consumption, is integral to the local fauna, facilitating seed dispersal and the continuation of the species.

Historically described in 1803, with bibliographical reference by Choix, De Pl., T. 25, and authored by Vent., Notelaea longifolia has been an important subject of botanical studies. Ongoing research highlights its ecological contributions, including soil stabilization and support of native biodiversity.

In horticulture, the Large Mock Olive is valued for its resilience and adaptability. It is often utilized in landscaping for its lush foliage and ability to thrive in various soil conditions with minimal maintenance. Gardeners and landscapers appreciate its ornamental qualities and its role in creating natural privacy screens or windbreaks.

Overall, the Large Mock Olive is a distinguished member of the Oleaceae family, valued both ecologically and aesthetically. Its presence in Eastern New South Wales showcases the rich botanical diversity of the region and highlights the importance of preserving native plant species.

Common Names

Eng: axbreaker, axe-breaker, large mock olive, large-leaf olive, longleaf-olive, mock olive
En: Large mock olive, Longleaf-olive, Axbreaker, Axe-breaker, Large-leaf olive, Mock olive, Large mock-olive, Long-leaved-olive

Synonyms

• Notelaea nervosa ((C.F.Gaertn.) Steud.)
• Notelaea longifolia f. intermedia (P.S.Green)
• Notelaea laurifolia (Kunth)
• Rhysospermum nervosum (C.F.Gaertn.)
• Notelaea rigida (Desf.)
• Rhysospermum ellipticum (C.F.Gaertn.)
• Notelaea reticulata (DC.)
• Postuera longifolia ((Vent.) Raf.)
• Notelaea longifolia var. decomposita (Domin)
• Notelaea longifolia var. rigida ((Desf.) Domin)
• Notelaea longifolia f. glabra (P.S.Green)
• Notelaea longifolia var. typica (Domin)
• Notelaea longifolia var. candolleana (Domin)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 9, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 9, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 9, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 9, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3682281)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:610576-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Notelaea longifolia Vent.)

Specifications

Growth