Sour plum, Hunger tree
ximenia caffra
Also known as: ["African plum","Sour plum tree"]
Overview
A small deciduous tree native to Africa, known for its edible but tart fruits and hard wood.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Santalales |
| Family: | Olacaceae |
| Genus: | Ximenia |
| Botanical Name: | Ximenia caffra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, or large container in a sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- 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, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in filtered light during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
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 seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
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 mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
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; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to heat stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the compounds in Ximenia caffra, particularly the hydrogen cyanide found in the seeds. Even small amounts may cause mild toxicity, while larger quantities can lead to more severe symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities of Ximenia caffra fruits or seeds. The presence of hydrogen cyanide in the seeds can pose a risk if ingested in significant amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicXimenia caffra, commonly known as the sour plum, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in large amounts. The fruits and seeds contain small amounts of hydrogen cyanide, which can lead to toxicity if ingested in excessive quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Ximenia caffra edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but has a sour taste.
Q: Does Ximenia caffra attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Ximenia caffra drought tolerant?
A: Yes, it is moderately drought tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Olacaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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