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Schotia afra

by Johan Wentzel

Schotia afra
Common Name
Karoo boer-bean
Plant Type
Shrub, Tree
Schotia afra is a fairly slowing growing shrub or small tree that is ideal for the small garden. The red flowers are quite spectacular. The fine leaves add to the charm. It prefers a sunny position and well drained soil.
Plant Description

Schotia afra is a multi-branched evergreen tree or shrub that can grow to a mature height of 5m. It naturally occurs along the banks of dry streams and small rivers in the Little Karoo, the drier areas of Eastern Cape and the southern part of Western Cape.

This small waterwise tree has glossy dark green leaves which are pinnately compound, alternately arranged and a rugged looking bark. From summer to autumn, the Karoo boer-bean produces clusters of pear-shaped flowers which are nectar laden. These flowers attract a wide range of bird and butterfly species to the garden.  After flowering, large lime green to pink seed pods which turn brown when ripe are produced.

Scotia afra prefers sunny positions and well drained soils. This moderate to fast growing tree is frost hardy and has a high tolerance to drought.  Karoo boer-bean is not messy, and its root system is non-invasive making it a good option for small gardens where there is a limited space available. It is also suitable for coastal areas as it easily adapts to dry sandy soil, forceful wind limited rainfall and intense light. It is also well adapted to Highveld conditions.

It also makes a magnificent container plant for patios and is suitable for bonsai as well. When clustered around edges of a property, Karoo boer-bean can form a colourful impenetrable hedge thereby creating privacy.

You may find stock of this plant at Random Harvest.

Afrikaanse Naam
Karoo boerboon
Hardiness
Very hardy
Position
Sun
Water Requirements
Water wise
Evergreen
Evergreen
Growth Rate
Moderate
Flowering Time
Spring
Flower Colour
Red
Shape
Compact
Soil
Loam
Plant Size
3m
Region
Eastern Cape, Karroo
Habitat
Grassland, Riverine
Grown by Wildflower Nursery
Yes
  • Schotia afra

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Random Harvest Nursery: 082 553 0598

Jonathan Taylor: 0768305242

Email: [email protected]

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