Dichrostachys cinerea
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusDichrostachys
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Dichrostachys cinerea, commonly known as the 'Sickle Bush' or 'Marabou Thorn', is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Africa, India, and parts of Australia. It is known for its distinctive bi-colored flowers that resemble Chinese lanterns. The plant is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, often found in savannas and open woodlands.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Acacia Dalea
Desmanthus Cinereus
Mimosa Dalea
Sicklebush
Acacia cinerea
Cailliea cinerea
Dichrostachys cinerea subsp. cinerea
Dichrostachys santapaui
Mimosa cinerea
Neptunia cinerea
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity50%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Dichrostachys cinerea prefers bright, direct sunlight and moderate temperatures. It is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The plant thrives in moderate humidity and does not require special humidity conditions.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but performs best in moderately fertile soil. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10 during the growing season. Fertilize sparingly, as the plant does not require heavy feeding. Apply fertilizer once a month during the active growing period.Repotting
Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Dichrostachys cinerea can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season and planted in a well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Prune during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage new growth. Regular pruning helps to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.Toxicity
Dichrostachys cinerea is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any accidental ingestion.Additional
The plant is known for its invasive nature in some regions, so it is important to manage its growth and spread. It can be used as a natural fence or barrier due to its thorny branches.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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