White Stinkwood
kirkia acuminata
Also known as: ["White Stinkwood Tree","Kirkia"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to southern Africa, known for its hard wood and small, fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Kirkiaceae |
| Genus: | Kirkia |
| Botanical Name: | Kirkia acuminata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, dry regions, or as a container plant in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major shaping every 2–3 years or as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and growth habit.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but requires protection from harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid west-facing exposure in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in dormancy
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in stable, warm conditions. Reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain stable warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid (60–70%), and bright indirect light with some shade.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of individual stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth first; make clean cuts just above a node; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Kirkia acuminata prefers slightly root-bound conditions, so repot only when necessary.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop. Prolonged cold may lead to dieback.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; reduce watering; protect from drafts and frost.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicKirkia acuminata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicKirkia acuminata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicKirkia acuminata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions. The plant has no reported adverse effects when handled or ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kirkia acuminata suitable for indoor growing?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor landscapes due to its size and growth habits.
Q: Does the White Stinkwood attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and foliage.
Q: How fast does Kirkia acuminata grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching maturity over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Kirkiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store