Fever Tree
vachellia xanthophloea
Also known as: ["Acacia xanthophloea"]
Overview
A tall, semi-deciduous tree native to Africa, recognized by its distinctive greenish-yellow bark and feathery foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Vachellia |
| Botanical Name: | Vachellia xanthophloea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in open, spacious area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health or shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates high light intensity but benefits from some afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day. Indoors, place in the brightest possible location.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during dry periods, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogging; use a mix suited for arid-adapted plants.
Temperature
Thrives in warm to hot climates (20–35°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers temperatures above 10°C. Growth slows in cooler conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
rarely required, annually with balanced slow-release fertilizer if needed
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; water after fertilizing to distribute nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 10–15 cm cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid environment with indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks. Seedlings take 1–2 years to reach significant size.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve structure.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage airflow. Light pruning can be done annually to shape the canopy.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter. Avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. This species prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to avoid runoff, and continue until water drains from the bottom. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month or less in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Incorporate compost for organic matter and fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or branch dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots and vascular tissues.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or mulch. Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location. Avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. High temperatures may stress the plant, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat. Water deeply to maintain soil moisture. Use mulch to insulate roots and reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after application; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. Apply lightly around the root zone, avoiding direct contact with roots. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds or inner bark of Vachellia xanthophloea. The toxic effects are generally limited to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the seeds or inner bark of Vachellia xanthophloea. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive system, causing irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and inner bark of Vachellia xanthophloea contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is it called the Fever Tree?
A: It was historically associated with areas where malaria was prevalent, though the tree itself is not the cause of fever.
Q: Is the Fever Tree suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in urban environments with adequate space.
Q: Does the Fever Tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during dry p |
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