Kareeboom
cussonia sphaerocephala
Also known as: ["Marakele","Mountain Karee"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to southern Africa, known for its distinctive umbrella-like crown and large, pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Genus: | Cussonia |
| Botanical Name: | Cussonia sphaerocephala |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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, loamy soil with added organic matter and sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water less in winter dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use a mix with good structure; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 18–27°C (64–80°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep humid and warm until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 21–24°C (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, propagation medium, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier development.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
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 before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer), reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or compost to improve drainage and aeration; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback if exposed to prolonged temperatures below 5°C (41°F).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells; use frost cloth for outdoor protection; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges under intense heat or drought stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Cussonia sphaerocephala. The roots and stems contain compounds that can cause digestive upset but are not highly toxic.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cussonia sphaerocephala roots and stems can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains irritants that may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCussonia sphaerocephala contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The roots and stems are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cussonia sphaerocephala suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor landscaping due to its size and growth habit.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is this tree?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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