Heartleaf Kola
cola cordifolia
Also known as: ["Heartleaf Kola","Cordifolia Kola"]
Overview
A tropical tree species native to West Africa, known for its heart-shaped leaves and kola-like seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Cola |
| Botanical Name: | Cola cordifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location with protection from strong winds
- 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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter and dappled shade in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from harsh afternoon sun, place in filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (55–60°F) at night; avoid drafts and sudden changes.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node, thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth, shape plant, encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining health and form.
Tools
Clean pruners, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and mild central nervous system effects if they ingest Cola cordifolia seeds or roots. The alkaloids present can cause temporary discomfort but are not typically fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cola cordifolia seeds and roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and mild central nervous system effects due to alkaloid content. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCola cordifolia contains alkaloids and tannins that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and central nervous system 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: Is Cola cordifolia related to the kola nut used in cola drinks?
A: Yes, it belongs to the same genus (Cola) but is distinct from the species primarily used for commercial kola nuts.
Q: How tall does Cola cordifolia grow?
A: It typically grows into a medium-sized tree, reaching heights of 10–20 meters in its natural habitat.
Q: Does Cola cordifolia require special care?
A: It thrives in tropical conditions with well-drained soil and partial shade, requiring moderate maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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