Rediviva
cunonia capensis
Also known as: ["African Rediviva","Cape Rediviva"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to South Africa, known for its glossy leaves and small, white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Cunoniaceae |
| Genus: | Cunonia |
| Botanical Name: | Cunonia capensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in sheltered spot, or large indoor container
- 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, slightly acidic soil mix, such as a combination of peat moss, perlite, and loam.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year. Major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on the plant's needs and desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade, especially in summer. Indoors, position near an east or north-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains, avoid waterlogging, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.5.
Use a well-draining mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoids frost.
Protect from frost; maintain moderate temperatures; increase humidity in hot conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts; fertilize only when actively growing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method. Take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks. New growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity; check for root development after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased branches; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any damaged roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This helps refresh the soil and provides more space for 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 thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), reducing frequency in fall/winter. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in response to extreme cold or heat. Stunted growth or bud drop may also occur.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location or protect it from cold drafts. Use a space heater if necessary, and avoid placing it near cold windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration. High temperatures combined with low humidity may stress the plant.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting or a humidifier, and ensure adequate watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCunonia capensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCunonia capensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCunonia capensis is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant has no documented adverse physiological impacts when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the common name of Cunonia capensis?
A: It is commonly known as Rediviva.
Q: Is Cunonia capensis toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: What are the care requirements for Cunonia capensis?
A: It requires moderate care, including moderate toughness and maintenance levels, and is best suited for outdoor landscaping.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cunoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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