Water
Water moderately when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during cooler, dormant periods.
Also known as Scaleleaf Garlic-Nut
Afrostyrax lepidophyllus, the Country Onion, is a tropical African shrub valued for its aromatic foliage and potential medicinal properties.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Moderate during growth
50% intensity
Feed with diluted balanced fertilizer during spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
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 feels dry. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during cooler, dormant periods.
Prune to maintain shape and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Light pruning can encourage bushier growth. Avoid heavy pruning, as this plant responds best to minimal intervention.
Propagate from seed sown in spring or from offsets. Seeds require warmth and consistent moisture. Offsets can be carefully separated from the parent plant and potted into their own containers.
Repot every 2-3 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Country Onion (Afrostyrax lepidophyllus)
Where Country Onion (Afrostyrax lepidophyllus) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Huaceae |
| Genus | Afrostyrax |
| Species | Afrostyrax lepidophyllus |
Similar in genus Afrostyrax
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data