Newbouldia laevis

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Close

Newbouldia laevis (African Border Tree, Akoko Tree, Newboldia) trees are small, growing up to 10-20 ft and can tolerate full sun or semi-shade. They do best when planted in areas where they will receive moderate water. These small trees provide an abundance of bright pink flowers that are sometimes blue, lavender, and purple.

In Africa, Newbouldia laevis is a popular ethnomedical plant and has been used for centuries to treat malaria, rabies, and snakebite. The tree is valued for its medicinal properties and is also revered for its religious significance.

Newbouldia laevis is relatively cold hardy and can withstand short periods of temperatures in the 30s F. In USDA Zone 9-11, this tree can be grown with care. The best way to grow it in colder regions is in a pot. When grown in a pot, you need to make sure that the roots are still in soil that is kept moist and cool. In cold climates, you should bring your potted Newbouldia laevis indoors during winter months, especially if temperatures are expected to dip below freezing.

Taking care of this plant is relatively simple and requires minimal effort. Be sure to water it regularly, but not excessively, and ensure that the soil is well-draining. You should also prune your tree occasionally to prevent it from growing too large and out of control. To keep your tree healthy, fertilize periodically and mist the leaves to keep them from drying out.

Newbouldia laevis is a beautiful tree to add to any garden. With the correct care, this small tree will provide you with years of lush green foliage and beautiful, bright flowers. Whether grown in the ground or in a pot, it is sure to be a beautiful addition to your landscape.