African Boxwood
myrsine africana
Also known as: ["African Myrtle","Cape Myrtle","False Boxwood"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to Africa, known for its dense foliage and small, dark green leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Myrsine |
| Botanical Name: | Myrsine africana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor spot in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; place indoors near a bright window or outdoors in dappled shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant without removing too much foliage.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/damaged branches, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts or frost exposure.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Myrsine africana berries may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The toxic effects are generally limited to digestive discomfort, with no severe systemic toxicity reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Myrsine africana berries by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive tract, causing discomfort but typically not posing a serious health risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMyrsine africana berries contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, with no severe systemic effects reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Myrsine africana suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor shrub but can be grown indoors in bright, well-ventilated conditions.
Q: How often should I water Myrsine africana?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Myrsine africana attract wildlife?
A: It can attract some bird species that feed on its small fruits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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