Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Reduce watering frequency during winter months to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Also known as African Wintersweet · Bushman's Poison Bush · Dune Poison Bush
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Acokanthera oblongifolia Ex is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree native to South Africa, featuring glossy leaves and fragrant, star-shaped white flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C.
Low
25% intensity
Feed annually in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts highly toxic, especially the milky sap and fruit, containing cardiac glycosides.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Reduce watering frequency during winter months to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make precise cuts.
Avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the plant.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Use a rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining medium. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, humid environment until roots form.
Alternatively, seeds can be sown, but germination can be slow and erratic.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with good drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Acokanthera Oblongifolia Ex (Acokanthera oblongifolia)
Where Acokanthera Oblongifolia Ex (Acokanthera oblongifolia) is found

Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Acokanthera |
| Species | Acokanthera oblongifolia |
Similar in genus Acokanthera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data