Bushman's poison
acokanthera oblongifolia
Also known as: ["Bushman's poison tree","African arrow poison"]
Overview
A small, evergreen tree or shrub native to southern Africa, known for its toxic sap and leaves historically used by indigenous peoples for arrow poisons.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Acokanthera |
| Botanical Name: | Acokanthera oblongifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny area or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration; can use a cactus or succulent mix as a base.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant's growth if necessary, but avoid excessive pruning in
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter to every 3–4 weeks
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and environmental conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix that dries out between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage by watering and observing runoff.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; can also propagate from seeds, though this is slower and less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch stem cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing; avoid propagation during dormancy.
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 potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches; focus on structural improvement and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves, clean cloth.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune dead or damaged growth first; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring is the ideal time, as the plant enters its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 2–3 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly until drainage occurs; ensure pot has drainage holes; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom of the pot; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure pots have adequate drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in hot stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to leaf drop or dieback.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may lead to reduced flowering or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicAcokanthera oblongifolia is highly toxic to cats due to its cardiac glycoside content. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can result in severe cardiac toxicity, leading to arrhythmias, heart failure, and potentially death.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Acokanthera oblongifolia are highly toxic to dogs, affecting their cardiovascular system similarly to humans. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiac issues, including arrhythmias and heart failure, which can be fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAcokanthera oblongifolia contains potent cardiac glycosides, primarily ouabain, which can cause severe cardiac toxicity. Ingestion can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, heart failure, and potentially death due to its potent effects on the cardiovascular system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acokanthera oblongifolia safe to grow around pets?
A: No, all parts of the plant are highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What is the primary use of this plant?
A: Historically, its sap and leaves were used to make arrow poisons by indigenous peoples.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Acokanthera oblongifolia?
A: It requires moderate care, including protection from frost and adequate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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