Kei Berry
dovyalis zeyheri
Also known as: ["African Cherry","Kei Berry Tree"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to southern Africa, known for its spiny branches and edible orange-red fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Dovyalis |
| Botanical Name: | Dovyalis zeyheri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix. A cactus or succulent mix amended with organic matter works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, especially in cooler months. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot regions. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateModerate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate the plant regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm to hot climates, with ideal temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C–29°C). Can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures but prefers stable warmth.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air conditioning vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during growing season
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; water before applying fertilizer to prevent root shock; use a balanced NPK ratio.
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 several nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation 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 temperatures around 70°F–75°F (21°C–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite, peat moss, and sand or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting bottle, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and remove weak or crossing branches.
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.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil mix, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply to ensure thorough saturation without runoff. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage leaves and slow growth. Frost can cause significant dieback or death.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location in cold spells. Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. Prolonged drought stress exacerbates heat damage.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure adequate soil moisture retention with mulch.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Dovyalis zeyheri may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats due to saponin content. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Dovyalis zeyheri can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically mild and self-limiting.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Dovyalis zeyheri contain small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in large quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Kei Berry tree suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a manageable size, but it naturally grows into a small to medium tree.
Q: Are the fruits of Dovyalis zeyheri edible?
A: Yes, the orange-red fruits are edible and often used to make jams or eaten fresh.
Q: Does this plant require a lot of water?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant once established and prefers well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
