Noni
morinda citrifolia
Also known as: ["Great Morinda","Indian Mulberry","Noni"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia and Australasia, known for its distinctive fruit used in traditional medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Morinda |
| Botanical Name: | Morinda citrifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: tropical garden or container in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove deadwood and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; selective removal of older or damaged branches.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may reduce fruiting.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates 55–95°F (13–35°C) but thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from cold drafts; maintain humidity in dry heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; avoid contact with leaves.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bag, misting spray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown branches to improve airflow and shape; encourage fruiting.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents congestion.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or slowed growth in cold; wilting or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat; protect from drafts and frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; fruit may abort in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume large quantities of noni fruit or leaves. The plant's compounds can cause irritation in the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicNoni fruit and leaves can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested in significant amounts. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicMorinda citrifolia, commonly known as noni, is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts. However, excessive intake may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort and other adverse effects due to its high concentration of compounds like scopoletin and damnacanthal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Noni fruit edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but has a strong odor and bitter taste; it is often used in traditional medicine or fermented.
Q: Does Noni require full sun?
A: Noni prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on climate, and is adaptable to various light conditions.
Q: Is Noni toxic to pets?
A: Noni is mildly toxic to dogs and cats; ingestion may cause gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
