Also known as Red Bush-Willow
Red Bushwillow (Combretum apiculatum) is a hardy, drought-tolerant small tree or large shrub native to Africa, known for its striking red flowers and medicinal uses.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Drought tolerant once established.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in hot, arid conditions. Protect from frost; can tolerate temperatures above 30°C.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly only during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply when the top 5-10 cm of soil is dry, typically in summer. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, as this species is drought-tolerant once established and prefers drier conditions.
Prune to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches, ideally after flowering. Heavy pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
This encourages bushier growth and better flowering.
Propagate from seed, which benefits from scarification or soaking before sowing. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer or hardwood in winter, treated with rooting hormone and kept in a humid environment.
Young plants may need repotting every 2-3 years in spring as they outgrow their containers. Mature plants are best left undisturbed and can be top-dressed with fresh soil. Ensure the new pot has excellent drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Bushwillow (Combretum apiculatum)
Where Red Bushwillow (Combretum apiculatum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Combretaceae |
| Genus | Combretum |
| Species | Combretum apiculatum |
Similar in genus Combretum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
