Cape Ash
ekebergia capensis
Also known as: ["Cape Ash","Cape Ash Tree","Jakkalsbessieboom"]
Overview
A medium-sized to large deciduous tree native to southern Africa, known for its attractive foliage and small, fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Genus: | Ekebergia |
| Botanical Name: | Ekebergia capensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a spacious area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed, otherwise focus on selecti
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf scorch; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–14 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogged conditions; amend heavy clay with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in subtropical to tropical climates.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
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 reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), humid (70–80%), and bright indirect light with bottom heat for cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take 3–6 weeks under ideal conditions.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, heating mat.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood; also prune to control size in containers.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, and allow excess water to drain freely to prevent waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and maximize absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter when growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme cold or heat; bud drop during temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or mulch; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature leaf drop; may reduce flowering if stressed.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at recommended dilution; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring before new growth; apply liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season at half strength; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEkebergia capensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of any part of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEkebergia capensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion of any part of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEkebergia capensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no documented toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with the consumption of any part of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Cape Ash tree suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is suitable for urban landscapes, provided there is adequate space for its growth.
Q: Does the Cape Ash tree produce edible fruits?
A: The fruits are not typically consumed by humans but are eaten by wildlife.
Q: How fast does the Cape Ash tree grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching maturity over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during activ |
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