Fever Tree
acacia xanthophloea
Also known as: ["Fever Tree","Yellow-barked Acacia"]
Overview
A tall, semi-deciduous tree native to Africa, recognized by its distinctive yellow-green 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: | Acacia |
| Botanical Name: | Acacia xanthophloea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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, sandy loam with 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: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid shaded corners.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers stable warmth.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months with balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced NPK ratio.
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.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and humidity is moderate.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 4–6 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective branch removal; cut just above a node or lateral branch; avoid topping.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; risk of root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; apply a thick mulch layer; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use evaporative cooling if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use correct dilution; avoid winter feeding; monitor for salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the seeds or bark of Acacia xanthophloea. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the seeds and bark of Acacia xanthophloea can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and bark of Acacia xanthophloea contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild systemic effects when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is it called the Fever Tree?
A: The name originated from the belief that the trees grew in areas prone to malaria, though the tree itself is not the cause of fever.
Q: Is the Fever Tree suitable for urban landscaping?
A: Yes, it is suitable for larger urban landscapes where space allows for its mature size.
Q: Does the Fever Tree require special soil conditions?
A: It thrives in well-drained, sandy soils but can adapt to various soil types.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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