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Description
Acokanthera Oppositifolia, also known as the Bushman’s Poison or Poison Arrow tree, is a species of plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Africa, specifically to the eastern and southern parts of the continent. This plant is considered one of the deadliest poisonous plants in Africa and is known for its toxic alkaloids.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Acokanthera |
Appearance
Acokanthera Oppositifolia is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 6 meters in height. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, with a length of 10-20 centimeters and a width of 4-8 centimeters. The tree’s flowers are small, white, and fragrant, with a diameter of around 1 centimeter. The fruit of the plant is a small, round, green berry that turns black when it ripens.
Care Guide
Acokanthera Oppositifolia is a low-maintenance plant. It can survive in different types of soils, including sandy and clay soils, but it prefers well-draining soils. This plant also requires full sun exposure to grow well. It is drought-tolerant, but it still needs to be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but it can help promote healthy growth. Acokanthera Oppositifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acokanthera Oppositifolia is not prone to any significant pests or diseases. However, it is susceptible to leaf spot, root rot, and scale insects. To prevent these problems, ensure that the plant has adequate drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Acokanthera Oppositifolia is native to Africa and is found in countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It grows in savannahs, woodlands, and rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acokanthera Oppositifolia poisonous?
A: Yes, it is considered one of the deadliest poisonous plants in Africa.
Q: Can Acokanthera Oppositifolia grow in different types of soils?
A: Yes, it can survive in different types of soils, but it prefers well-draining soils.
Q: Does Acokanthera Oppositifolia require full sun exposure?
A: Yes, it requires full sun exposure to grow well.
Q: What is the fruit of Acokanthera Oppositifolia?
A: The fruit is a small, round, green berry that turns black when it ripens.
Related Plants
- Acokanthera schimperi
- Acokanthera spectabilis
- Acokanthera venenata
References
- “Acokanthera Oppositifolia.” PlantZAfrica. https://pza.sanbi.org/acokanthera-oppositifolia. Accessed 24 November 2021.
- “Acokanthera Oppositifolia.” The Poison Garden. http://www.thepoisongarden.co.uk/atoz/acokanthera_oppositifolia.htm. Accessed 24 November 2021.
- “Acokanthera Oppositifolia.” World Agroforestry. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1875. Accessed 24 November 2021.
