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Kedrostis Africana
BeginnerKedrostis africana
A cucurbit-family caudex with gnarly gray caudex producing vines, hardy and easy.
Overview
Kedrostis africana grows in savannas and dry woodland habitats across South Africa and Namibia, belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Its gnarly, gray-textured caudex is distinctive and appealing to collectors who appreciate raw, rough-hewn character. Twining stems with finely lobed leaves emerge from the caudex during growth. The plant is dioecious: female plants produce small red fruits after flowering. Growth is relatively fast and the species is robust, making it one of the more manageable cucurbit caudex plants. During the growing season it extends vines vigorously. Full sun to bright partial shade with well-draining soil is appropriate. Generous watering from spring through autumn transitions to drought during winter dormancy. It has reasonable cold tolerance compared to many caudex plants. Accessible pricing and availability make it a good entry point into cucurbit caudex collecting. Its unpretentious but characterful caudex can be displayed to striking effect.
Lifespan of the Kedrostis Africana
The Kedrostis Africana lives 20+ years.
Size of the Kedrostis Africana
The Kedrostis Africana grows to Caudex 10-30cm.
Basic Info
Origin
South Africa and Namibia
Lifespan
20+ years
Size
Caudex 10-30cm
Temperature
10〜35℃
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Adapts to full sun through bright partial shade. Keep the caudex exposed above the soil and grow it in a well-ventilated spot.
Watering
In the spring-to-autumn growing season, water thoroughly once the soil dries. The vines grow vigorously in summer, so do not let it dry out completely.
Dormancy Care
It goes dormant in winter, so withhold water. When new shoots start moving in spring, resume watering gradually with small amounts.
Temperature & Overwintering
It has some cold tolerance, but during dormancy it is safest kept dry in a frost-free location.
Soil & Repotting
Use a well-draining mix with a generous share of akadama and pumice. Repotting at the start of the growing season lets the roots recover quickly.
Propagation
The plant is dioecious, so both a female and a male plant are needed to obtain seed. Growth is relatively fast, and seedlings are easy to raise.
Kedrostis Africana FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Kedrostis Africana?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Kedrostis Africana?
The average lifespan of Kedrostis Africana is 20+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Kedrostis Africana get?
The mature size of Kedrostis Africana is Caudex 10-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Kedrostis Africana?
The price of Kedrostis Africana varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Kedrostis africana (L.) Cogn.
Synonyms: Kedrostis digitata (Thunb.) Cogn., Coniandra pinnatisecta Schrad., Bryonia multifida E.Mey., Cyrtonema digitatum Schrad., Coniandra punctulata Sond., Bryonia pinnatifida Burch., Rhynchocarpa africana (L.) Asch., Coniandra africana (L.) Sond., Bryonia digitata Thunb., Rhynchocarpa dissecta Naudin, Kedrostis glauca Cogn., Bryonia ciliata Moench, Kedrostis grossulariifolia C.Presl, Bryonia grossularifolia E.Mey., Bryonia dissecta Thunb., Bryonia africana L., Coniandra digitata Sond., Coniandra dissecta Schrad., Coniandra glauca Schrad., Coniandra grossulariifolia Arn.
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in either CITES Appendix I or II. Also not subject to Japan's designated invasive species or specified animals regulations (being a plant).
Sources: CITES Appendix I species list / CITES Appendix II species list / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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