Gum bully
Sideroxylon lanuginosum · Sapotaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around gum bully and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- African Walnut, Ironwood
- Family
- Sapotaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer, small discreet flowers
- Adult size
- 8 to 15 m in height
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Tropical, not hardy below 5°C
- Origin
- West and Central Africa
Care
Light exposure
Place this tree in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates direct light well and thrives in tropical and subtropical zones. In temperate climates, reserve it for greenhouse or heated conservatory cultivation.
Watering
Water regularly during active growth, keeping the soil slightly moist without waterlogging. Reduce watering during winter dormancy. Prefer rainwater or filtered water to minimize lime deposits.
Substrate and soil
Prefer well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral, rich in organic matter. A mix of potting soil, perlite and compost works well in containers. In tropical soil, ensure good drainage.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer every two months during the growing season (spring-summer). Reduce or stop application in autumn-winter. A one-time compost application in spring naturally enriches the soil.
Pruning and structure
Perform light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood. Intervene preferably at the end of winter before growth resumes. No drastic pruning is needed for harmonious development.
Diseases and pests
Monitor for mealybugs and spider mites in warm environments. Check foliage regularly and spray with clear water if needed. Good air circulation prevents fungal issues; avoid stagnant moisture on foliage.
Did you know?
Sideroxylon lanuginosum is prized in Africa for the exceptional hardness and density of its wood, hence its nickname 'ironwood'. Its scientific name 'Sideroxylon' literally means 'iron wood' in Greek (sideros = iron, xylon = wood). This tree plays an important role in African forest ecosystems and its presence is often associated with soil stabilization.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.