Weeping Boer Bean
schotia brachypetala
Also known as: ["Cape Boer Bean","Forest Boer Bean"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to South Africa, known for its profuse display of crimson-red flowers and drooping branches.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Schotia |
| Botanical Name: | Schotia brachypetala |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot, or large container in a sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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 organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight if moving from indoors; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Provide morning sun and afternoon shade; rotate the plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak heat.
Watering
every 7–14 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then let the soil dry out; avoid frequent shallow watering; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, sand, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in subtropical to tropical climates.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid burning roots; apply before the rainy season; stop fertilizing in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take several weeks to months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth; prune after flowering or in late winter.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
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 directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
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 can cause leaf drop or damage to tender tissues; prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; high temperatures may increase water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest the seeds or bark of Schotia brachypetala. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of the seeds and bark of Schotia brachypetala can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The effects are typically not severe but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and bark of Schotia brachypetala contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Schotia brachypetala attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is this plant drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it can withstand periods of drought once established.
Q: How tall does Schotia brachypetala grow?
A: It can reach heights of 6–10 meters under optimal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during activ |
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