Noltea africana
Noltea africana
Soap Dogwood
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Taxonomy
Family Rhamnaceae · Genus Noltea
Common Names
Soap DogwoodAfrican Soap Bush
Context
nativeRegion
South Africa, especially the Western and Eastern Cape.
usdaZones
9–11.
companionPlants
Erica species, Restio species, Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos)
culturalUses
Grown as an ornamental for its glossy foliage and flowers; young branches sometimes used for brushwood fencing; historically used in traditional medicine.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPrefers full sun to partial shade.
WateringModerate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
SoilThrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil; tolerant of poor soil.
FertilizerLight feeding in spring with a balanced fertilizer; generally not required if soil is fertile.
HumidityAdaptable to normal outdoor humidity; tolerates dry air conditions well.
TemperatureHardy in mild to warm climates; best grown in frost-free areas.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen shrub or small tree with a dense, bushy crown.
Mature SizeTypically 2–5 meters tall, sometimes reaching 7 meters.
Growth RateModerate growth rate.
BloomingWhite to pale mauve flowers appear mainly in late winter to early summer.
DormancyNo true dormancy; evergreen in suitable climates.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Semi-hardwood cuttings
DifficultyEasy to moderate; seeds germinate readily with pre-soaking.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for seeds; spring for cuttings.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningLight pruning to shape after flowering, if desired.
RepottingYoung plants can be transplanted easily; not commonly container-grown as mature plants.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest- and disease-free; occasional aphid infestations possible.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.
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