Also known as East African Olive · False Ironwood · Ijzerhout
Olea capensis, commonly known as Black Ironwood, is a dense, slow-growing evergreen tree native to Africa, known for its exceptionally hard wood.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm to hot temperatures, tolerates light frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Olea capensis prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate brief periods of drought once established. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months.
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Minimal pruning is usually required as it has a natural growth habit.
Can be pruned for hedging or topiary if desired.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter. Root cuttings in a well-draining medium, keeping them consistently moist and warm. Grafting can also be used for specific cultivars.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in spring, or when root-bound. Mature trees rarely need repotting. Use a gritty, well-draining potting mix. Ensure adequate drainage holes in the pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Black Ironwood (Olea capensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Olea |
| Species | Olea capensis |
Similar in genus Olea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
