Forest White Pear
scolopia zeyheri
Also known as: ["Forest White Pear","White Pear"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to South Africa, known for its hard, white wood and small, white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Scolopia |
| Botanical Name: | Scolopia zeyheri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed, but generally prune select
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but may become leggy in overly shaded conditions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Indoors, place near a south or west-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing directly under harsh midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn't compact easily; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in subtropical to tropical conditions.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth
Apply fertilizer only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in 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 without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; seedlings prefer a standard seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks. Seedlings typically emerge in 2–4 weeks and take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain humidity to prevent drying; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools. Make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve structure.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth. Pruning also improves air circulation and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; 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 water slowly to allow absorption and avoid runoff. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season (spring and summer), reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or browning of leaf edges. Stunted growth may indicate prolonged exposure to unfavorable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause leaf damage, slow growth, and increase susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move the plant to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells. Apply a layer of mulch to insulate roots. Use frost cloth for outdoor protection.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat (above 90°F or 32°C) can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity through misting or a humidifier, and ensure consistent watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Scolopia zeyheri seeds or berries may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Scolopia zeyheri seeds or berries may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation. The toxicity is not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicScolopia zeyheri contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The toxic effects are generally not life-threatening but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scolopia zeyheri suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size, making it suitable for smaller garden spaces.
Q: Does Scolopia zeyheri attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it produces nectar-rich flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How fast does Scolopia zeyheri grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching its mature size over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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