African oil tree Plant Care

African oil tree (Ricinodendron heudelotii subsp. africanum) belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family within the Ricinodendron genus. African oil tree is also known as African wood oil.

African oil tree displays a tall canopy tree growth habit, reaching up to 60 ft tall with a spread of approximately 30 ft. African oil tree produces small greenish-yellow flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted African oil tree every 7–14 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established trees mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

African oil tree thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Ricinodendron heudelotii subsp. africanum tolerates temperatures of 65–85°F. African oil tree prefers humidity levels of 50–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for African oil tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed African oil tree every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established trees 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 full sun to partial shade and well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

African oil tree is suited to USDA Zone 13b.

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

African oil tree can spread to about 30 ft (9.1 m) and reach about 60 ft (18 m) tall. Space plants about 30 ft (9.1 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 tree spacing calculator.

Prune African oil 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 tree in one year.

African oil 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 oil tree can be propagated through seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to african oil tree plant care, which shares the same genus.

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African oil tree is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, mealybugs. 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 oil tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. In cooler regions, grow African oil tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.