Oncoba Spinosa

Description

Oncoba spinosa, commonly known as the thorny tree, is a small tree or shrub that produces thorns up to 6 cm long. Indigenous to Africa, it can be found in different parts of the continent, including Madagascar, Kenya, and South Africa. The tree is known for its medicinal properties, and its bark is used to treat various ailments such as fever, stomach problems, and snakebites. In addition to its medicinal properties, it is often used for ornamental purposes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Oncoba spinosa can grow up to 5 meters tall and has a spread of about 4 meters. It produces thorns that can reach up to 6 cm long. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical, with a length of about 10-15 cm. The tree produces small, white, scented flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter. The fruit is a yellowish-orange, round, and fleshy drupe that measures about 2 cm in diameter.

Care Guide

Water

Oncoba spinosa requires moderate watering. The tree should be watered once a week, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly before the next watering.

Fertilization

Fertilization is not necessary for Oncoba spinosa, but it can benefit from a light application of fertilizer during the growing season.

Soil

The tree prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.

Sunlight

Oncoba spinosa prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, but it will not thrive in deep shade.

Hardiness Zones

The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9b-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Oncoba spinosa is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained.

Habitat

Oncoba spinosa is commonly found in savannas and woodlands throughout Africa. It prefers well-draining soils and can grow in areas with an annual rainfall of 500-1500 mm.

Question and Answer

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Oncoba spinosa?

A: The bark is used to treat fever, stomach problems, and snakebites.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Oncoba spinosa?

A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9b-11.

Q: How tall can Oncoba spinosa grow?

A: The tree can grow up to 5 meters tall.

Q: What is the fruit of Oncoba spinosa?

A: The fruit is a yellowish-orange, round, and fleshy drupe that measures about 2 cm in diameter.

Related Plants

• Oncoba echinata
• Oncoba pygmaea
• Oncoba welwitschii

References

• “Oncoba spinosa.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 20 Aug. 2021.
• “Oncoba spinosa.” World Agroforestry Centre. CGIAR Research Program on Trees, Forests and Agroforestry, n.d. Web. 20 Aug. 2021.
• “Oncoba spinosa.” Useful Tropical Plants. Ken Fern, n.d. Web. 20 Aug. 2021.