Ochna natalitia thrives in full sun to semi-shade and can be used as hedging or screening, grown as a specimen tree or planted in groves for a lovely woodland effect. This is the perfect tree for limited spaces in courtyards and smaller gardens, and copes well in mild coastal conditions, especially if protected from wind. It has a non-invasive root system and would not lift paving or walls. Water wise once established and tolerates a wide range of soil types, but prefers humus rich soils. They require little care or additional fertilizing. A general fertilizer such as 3:1:5 or compost mulch would aid ongoing year-round health and growth. The rare need for pruning may be just to shape a wayward branch, as generally their natural shape is rather structural and neat. Lower branches can be retained for a full-skirted look or trimmed up to display a main stem.

The Natal plane is best grown from seed. Remove all the flesh of the seeds, either manually or soak in water and allow the fleshy berry to soften and then rub clean. A light scarification with hot water or acid treatment would aid rapid germination. Sow in a well-drained, humic-rich potting mix and cover the seeds with same soil about twice the depth of the actual seed. Water well. Preventative fungicide is beneficial, but not necessary for successful germination. Keep moist, but not overly wet.
Seeds should germinate in three to four weeks. Prick out seedlings into smaller individual containers once they have four to six true leaves. Apply a growth stimulant such as liquid kelp to reduce transplant shock and invigorate seedlings. As seedlings develop, transplant into larger containers as necessary or transplant into the garden once they are established.

Ochna natalitia can be grown from semi-hardwood to hardwood tip cuttings, but for a vigorous plant it is best grown from seed with its tap root intact.

There are no known pests or diseases experienced with cultivating this lovely tree.