Kola Nut Tree (Cola acuminata)

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Sunlight Requires full to partial direct sunlight; tolerate dappled shade during intense midday tropical heat

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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during cool, dry winter periods

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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 15°C

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Leaf: Alternate, elliptical, glossy dark green leaves with entire, smooth margins
Flower: Small, creamy-white to pale yellow axillary flower clusters with faint fragrance
Fruit: Woody, star-shaped pods holding 3–10 reddish-brown, caffeine-rich kola nuts

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Watering

Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; maintain consistent moisture for active growth

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced organic fertilizer every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent leaf burn; reduce feeding in autumn and winter

Banana peel compost tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support fruit development

Pruning

Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve airflow and light penetration
Thin crowded inner branches to promote healthy fruit production
Prune to maintain desired height and shape in container cultivation during early spring

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Caffeine content is toxic; ingestion may cause restlessness, tremors, vomiting, and elevated heart rate

Humans: Contains caffeine; excessive nut ingestion causes insomnia, elevated heart rate, and anxiety

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Culture: Used in West African traditional ceremonies as a symbol of hospitality; key ingredient in early commercial cola beverages

Usage: Ornamental landscape tree; kola nuts used in culinary flavoring and as a natural stimulant