Cola nitida (Kola Nut) Plant

Description

Cola nitida, also known as Kola Nut, is a caffeine-containing nut of the kola tree, native to the tropical rainforests of Africa. The kola nut has cultural, medicinal, and economic significance, particularly in West African countries. The Cola nitida tree is evergreen and can grow up to 20 metres tall, producing star-shaped fruit, which contains seeds known as kola nuts.

Kola nuts are chewed in many West African cultures for their stimulant effects due to caffeine. They are also used in traditional ceremonies and rituals. It is reported to lessen fatigue, prevent hunger pangs, aid digestion, hangover remedy, increase mental activity and reduce the need for sleep.

It is also used to sweeten breath. Another application of the kola nut in the western world is as a flavouring agent for sodas. Kola nuts are one of the original ingredients used in the formulation of cola drinks. The kola nut is used as an additive in energy drinks and performance enhancers.

The Active Compounds

Cola nitida contains caffeine, theobromine, and polyphenols. Caffeine provides stimulant effects while polyphenols contributes to its antioxidant properties. Theobromine acts similar to caffeine, having stimulant and diuretic properties.

• Common name.

Abate Cola; Goora Nut; Cola Nut.

• Botanical Synonym.

Sterculia.

• Specifications.

50mm Pot Size
Seed Grown Plant

Ideal Growing Conditions.

Cola nitida requires well-drained, fertile soil and is typically grown in shaded areas to protect it from direct sunlight. It thrives in humid tropical climates with plenty of rainfall.

Pruning: Cola nitida generally requires only light to moderate pruning, mainly to shape the tree, manage size, and maintain healthy airflow through the canopy.

Pests and Diseases: Monitor your plant for pests like scale, mealybugs, aphids or spider mites. Cola nitida is generally considered fairly hardy, but in warm humid climates it can still attract a range of common tropical tree pests. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, Eco Oil or Neem Oil

Soil: You need a high quality potting mix, not a pre-bagged product such as you find at Bunnings etc, try a landscaping place. However, as I am not local to you I still can’t say if they have good quality or not. You are looking for well composted pine bark and large particles. This ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage.

We recommend Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day for a fertiliser, which can be found in our store, however any good quality slow release fertiliser will do. When time to re-pot, select a pot one size up ONLY and ensure it has many holes for good drainage.

Fertiliser: 

Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day Controlled Release Fertiliser

The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food

We cannot send plants to Western Australia & Tasmania due to restrictions.

We strongly recommended to select Express Post shipping for all plant orders to minimise the transit time.

Interested in other Kola Nut products? Have a look at these

Cola nitida (Kola Nut) Dried Nut Powder

Cola nitida (Kola Nut) Dried Nut Granules

*Traditional uses and general information on products are provided for educational purposes only. We do not make any therapeutic claims. Nothing contained in this site is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional’s advice