African dog-tree Plant Care

African dog-tree (Bersama abyssinica) belongs to the Francoaceae family within the Bersama genus. African dog-tree is also known as White assagai.

African dog-tree displays a compact, clumping habit growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. African dog-tree produces small white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted African dog-tree every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

African dog-tree thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing African dog-tree in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Bersama abyssinica tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. African dog-tree prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for African dog-tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed African dog-tree every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

African dog-tree is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

African dog-tree can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 2 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune African dog-tree while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

African dog-tree is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

African dog-tree can be propagated through seeds, division of offsets. Similar propagation techniques also apply to bersama swynnertonii plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

African dog-tree is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

African dog-tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. In cooler regions, grow African dog-tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.