🌳 Plant Bio – Acacia xanthophloea (Fever Tree)

Acacia xanthophloea, commonly known as the Fever Tree, is a striking medium-to-large deciduous tree native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is most easily recognized by its smooth yellow-green bark, which glows beautifully in sunlight and sets it apart as a true landscape gem. Growing naturally along riverbanks and low-lying areas, the Fever Tree brings elegance and character to any garden, park, or open landscape.

• Size: Reaches 50–65 ft (15–20 m) tall, occasionally up to 100 ft (30 m).

• Bark: Distinctive lime-yellow bark, smooth and eye-catching.

• Leaves: Fine, feathery bipinnate leaves that create a soft, airy canopy.

• Flowers: Clusters of small, fragrant, pale-yellow ball-shaped blooms in late spring or early summer.

• Fruits: Produces flat, elongated seed pods that mature to brown and split to release seeds.

🌞 Care Guide – Acacia xanthophloea

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun, needing 6+ hours daily.

• Soil: Prefers well-draining soil but tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils; adaptable to different pH levels.

• Watering: Moderately drought-tolerant when mature. Water deeply but infrequently, especially in prolonged dry spells.

• Pruning: Minimal needs—remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning during dormancy if shaping is required.

• Fertilizer: Established trees rarely need fertilizer; a balanced slow-release feed in early spring supports healthy growth.

• Pests/Diseases: Naturally hardy but may occasionally attract borers or leaf-eating insects. Monitor and treat if needed.

• Propagation: Easily propagated from scarified seeds soaked in warm water or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in spring/summer.

🌿 Uses & Benefits

• Highly ornamental for large gardens, estates, and parks.

• Provides dappled shade while maintaining an airy, open look.

• Adds striking color contrast with its unusual bark.

• Attracts pollinators with fragrant flowers.

• Historically linked to fever-bearing swampy areas (hence the name), though the tree itself is harmless.

✨ With its glowing bark, soft foliage, and graceful stature, the Fever Tree makes a spectacular centerpiece in outdoor landscapes. Hardy and low-maintenance, it brings year-round beauty and African elegance to your space.