Thorn Tree
strychnos spinosa
Also known as: ["African Thorn Tree","Spear Berry Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Africa, known for its spiny branches and edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Genus: | Strychnos |
| Botanical Name: | Strychnos spinosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical 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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- 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.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place indoors near a 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 growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; 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 especially in winter.
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 compacted soil; refresh soil every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slower release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; 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, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain form and encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood to maintain health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or secateurs.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil mix.
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 water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, reduce watering, and protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive water loss and metabolic stress.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water deeply but less frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
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
ToxicCats are also highly susceptible to the neurotoxins strychnine and brucine present in the seeds and unripe fruits of Strychnos spinosa. Ingestion can lead to severe neurological disturbances, including muscle spasms, convulsions, and respiratory failure, which can be life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are highly sensitive to the neurotoxins strychnine and brucine found in the seeds and unripe fruits of Strychnos spinosa. Ingestion can cause severe neurological symptoms, including muscle rigidity, seizures, and respiratory paralysis, which can be fatal without prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe seeds and unripe fruits of Strychnos spinosa contain strychnine and brucine, potent neurotoxins that interfere with neuromuscular transmission, leading to severe muscle contractions, convulsions, and potentially fatal respiratory failure. The ripe fruit pulp is generally safe for consumption, but the seeds and unripe parts must be strictly avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Strychnos spinosa edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and commonly consumed in its native regions.
Q: Is Strychnos spinosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Strychnos spinosa require much maintenance?
A: It has moderate maintenance needs, primarily requiring occasional pruning and watering during dry spells.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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