Also known as Cape Coffee · South African Coffee Tree
Cape-Coffee (Tricalysia capensis) is an evergreen shrub native to southern Africa, featuring glossy leaves and fragrant, star-shaped white flowers followed by red berries
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
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
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
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 thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Check soil moisture regularly, especially during active growth periods.
Prune to maintain shape and size, or to remove any dead or leggy growth. Light pruning can be done at any time, but heavier pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use clean, sharp secateurs for precise cuts.
Propagate Cape-Coffee from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the cuttings moist and humid, ideally in a propagator or covered with a plastic bag, until roots form.
Repot your Cape-Coffee every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Repotting is best done in spring, before the active growing season commences.
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 Cape-Coffee (Tricalysia capensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Tricalysia |
| Species | Tricalysia capensis |
Similar in genus Tricalysia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
