Boneseed, Bitou Bush

chrysanthemoides monilifera

Also known as: ["Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. monilifera","Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Chrysanthemoides Category: Shrubs

Overview

A woody, evergreen shrub native to southern Africa, known for its yellow, daisy-like flowers and round, green berries that turn black when ripe.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Chrysanthemoides
Botanical Name: Chrysanthemoides monilifera

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive pruning in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be pruned back by one-third to encourage branching.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Temperature

Prefers mild temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates heat but may require more water; sensitive to frost.

Monitor temperature changes; adjust watering; protect from frost and extreme heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth; water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. 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 potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss mix); can also root in water.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; cut back stems to healthy buds or lateral branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering; remove dead or diseased growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead or diseased wood; shape the plant; remove spent flowers.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing evaporation and leaf wetness.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, or bud drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; frost can damage or kill the plant.

Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in cold spells; move potted plants indoors; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor; may require increased watering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Chrysanthemoides monilifera may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can affect overall plant health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Chrysanthemoides monilifera is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Chrysanthemoides monilifera are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can reduce photosynthetic capacity and lead to premature leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Chrysanthemoides monilifera due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to plant decline and potential death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Chrysanthemoides monilifera, particularly due to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in the plant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, with potential for liver damage.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors loss of coordination abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Chrysanthemoides monilifera by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to the plant's pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Symptoms may range from mild to severe depending on the amount consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Chrysanthemoides monilifera contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's effects are primarily due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can lead to liver damage with chronic exposure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea headache dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Chrysanthemoides monilifera invasive?

A: Yes, it is considered an invasive species in many regions, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, where it outcompetes native vegetation.

Q: Can the berries of Chrysanthemoides monilifera be eaten?

A: The berries are mildly toxic to humans and should not be consumed.

Q: How do I control the spread of Chrysanthemoides monilifera?

A: Control methods include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventing seed dispersal by birds and other animals.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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