African Rosewood

combretum molle

Also known as: ["African Myrobalan","Featherleaf Combretum"]

Family: Combretaceae Genus: Combretum Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical tree native to Africa, known for its feathery foliage and small, fragrant flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Myrtales
Family: Combretaceae
Genus: Combretum
Botanical Name: Combretum molle

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large indoor container with bright light
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

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 growth; provide shade during peak summer; monitor for sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

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

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

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

Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable warmth.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain humidity in dry heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

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

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select a healthy stem.
  2. Cut below a node.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of branches to maintain form; avoid heavy cuts unless rejuvenation is needed.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

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, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

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 can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; apply a thick layer of mulch; protect from cold drafts.

Hot Stress

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

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist leaves to cool.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Combretum molle may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Combretum molle can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Combretum molle are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting in Combretum molle, particularly root or stem rot, is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Combretum molle. The plant is not highly toxic to felines but can cause mild discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Combretum molle seeds or leaves may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

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

Combretum molle contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The seeds are particularly noted for their potential to induce mild toxicity if ingested in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Wear gloves when handling to prevent skin irritation.
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 Combretum molle suitable for indoor cultivation?

A: No, it is best suited for outdoor landscapes due to its size and growth habit.

Q: Does Combretum molle attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.

Q: How drought-tolerant is Combretum molle?

A: It is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions.

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