Also known as Blinkbkaar Wag N Bietjie · Buffalo-Thorn · Isilahla
Buffalo Thorn (Ziziphus mucronata) is a thorny, deciduous tree native to sub-Saharan Africa, known for its medicinal uses and drought tolerance.
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 for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained, sandy, loamy, clay
50% intensity
Warm to Moderate
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Can tolerate brief cooler periods but is sensitive to frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring/summer with a balanced fertilizer. Not needed in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Buffalo Thorn moderately when the topsoil feels dry, typically once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Prune Buffalo Thorn to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and control size. Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Be mindful of its sharp thorns when pruning.
Propagate Buffalo Thorn from seeds sown in spring after scarification or soaking to improve germination. Cuttings taken in summer from semi-hardwood can also be used, requiring a well-draining medium and consistently moist conditions with bottom heat.
Repot young Buffalo Thorn plants every 2-3 years in spring to provide fresh soil and adequate space for root growth. Mature plants generally require less frequent repotting.
Use a well-draining potting mix and a slightly larger pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Buffalo Thorn (Ziziphus mucronata)
Where Buffalo Thorn (Ziziphus mucronata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Ziziphus |
| Species | Ziziphus mucronata |
Similar in genus Ziziphus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
