African Satinwood
doratoxylon apetalum
Also known as: ["African Satinwood","Satinwood Tree"]
Overview
A medium-sized deciduous tree native to tropical Africa, known for its attractive, smooth, dark brown to black bark and hard, durable wood.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Doratoxylon |
| Botanical Name: | Doratoxylon apetalum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot in a bright, warm room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary, but avoid excessive cutting in a single
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if moving from low light; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme cold.
Avoid placing near air vents; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust watering based on temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer after watering to avoid root burn; stop fertilizing if the plant shows signs of stress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, place in medium, keep moist and warm until roots develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve airflow.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage with a hole at the bottom.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose the right pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in a shaded area for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure proper drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the foliage; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow leaves to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, weaken the plant, and make it susceptible to root rot and pests.
Solution: Move the plant away from drafty areas, provide a heat source if necessary, and reduce watering to keep roots from freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier, provide shade during peak heat, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, pause in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Doratoxylon apetalum, particularly if they ingest the seeds or berries. The toxic compounds can induce severe gastrointestinal and systemic reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Doratoxylon apetalum by dogs can lead to significant toxicity due to the presence of harmful compounds. These toxins can cause gastrointestinal and systemic distress in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicDoratoxylon apetalum contains toxic compounds that can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. The toxins interfere with cellular processes, leading to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Doratoxylon apetalum suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: What are the primary uses of African Satinwood?
A: The wood is highly valued for furniture, cabinetry, and decorative purposes due to its durability and attractive grain.
Q: How does the tree respond to pruning?
A: It tolerates pruning well, but significant shaping should be done during the dormant season to minimize stress.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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