African Yellowwood
peltophorum africanum
Also known as: ["African Wattle","Cape Poinciana"]
Overview
A medium-sized deciduous tree native to southern Africa, known for its bright yellow flowers and fern-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Peltophorum |
| Botanical Name: | Peltophorum africanum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in open space with ample room for growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
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 if needed, but avoid heavy pruning on young trees.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young plants to full sun gradually to avoid scorching. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal; indoor growth requires a very bright location.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; gradual acclimation prevents leaf burn; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (20–30°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free conditions. Growth slows in cooler temperatures.
Protect from frost; water adequately in heat; adjust care seasonally.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize in spring before growth starts; avoid over-fertilizing; water after application.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Seeds are more reliable but slower; cuttings root readily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 10–15 cm cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss, or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination takes 2–4 weeks with establishment over several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage bushiness, and removal of crossing/rubbing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage strong branching. Focus on structural improvement and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid removing more than 20% of canopy at once.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter. Avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot young trees every 2–3 years to refresh soil and accommodate growth. Mature trees may only need repotting every 4–5 years or when root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use 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 seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season (spring and summer), reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf damage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots and vascular tissues.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., burlap wrap, mulch) in cold climates. Avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. Water stress exacerbates heat damage.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves, provide partial shade if possible, and mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; follow label instructions; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during active growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest the seeds or bark of Peltophorum africanum. The toxic compounds can cause digestive upset, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Peltophorum africanum seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids and tannins. Symptoms are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPeltophorum africanum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids and tannins that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Peltophorum africanum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its bright yellow flowers.
Q: Is this tree drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is well-adapted to drought conditions.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Peltophorum africanum?
A: It requires moderate care, including regular watering and pruning.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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