African Redwood

cordia africana

Also known as: ["African Mahogany","Red Cordia"]

Family: Boraginaceae Genus: Cordia Category: Trees

Overview

A medium-sized deciduous tree native to tropical Africa, known for its attractive foliage and timber.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Boraginales
Family: Boraginaceae
Genus: Cordia
Botanical Name: Cordia africana

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
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:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions.

Protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures; avoid placing near drafty windows or vents.

Fertilizing

every 2 months during active growth

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; avoid contact with stems.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°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 develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning and heading back to maintain shape and promote airflow.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged branches; shape the canopy; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the root zone to encourage deep roots; apply until water drains freely; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the base of the plant.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting due to extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to soil; rinse tools after use.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cordia africana may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, pest infestations, or disease, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cordia africana is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, which can lead to root damage and reduced nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Cordia africana may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Cordia africana is commonly caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Cordia africana, particularly the seeds and bark. The toxic compounds can cause irritation and discomfort in the digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression anorexia
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is observed.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Cordia africana seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds may cause irritation to the stomach and intestines, resulting in discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially seeds and bark. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Cordia africana contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids and other secondary metabolites that may irritate the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of seeds and bark. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cordia africana suitable for indoor cultivation?

A: No, it is a large tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.

Q: Does Cordia africana produce flowers?

A: Yes, it produces fragrant white or pale yellow flowers.

Q: Is the wood of Cordia africana valuable?

A: Yes, it is prized for its durability and is used in construction and furniture making.

Quick Reference
Family: Boraginaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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