China Doll
radermachera sinica
Also known as: ["Emerald Fern","Bell Tree"]
Overview
A fast-growing, tropical evergreen shrub with delicate, fern-like foliage and an upright growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Radermachera |
| Botanical Name: | Radermachera sinica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed for shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; place near east-facing windows for ideal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
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, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/damaged parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
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; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh potting mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from cold drafts; avoid placing near windows in winter.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade; water more frequently in hot weather.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRadermachera sinica is not known to be toxic to cats. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicRadermachera sinica is not known to be toxic to dogs. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicRadermachera sinica is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water China Doll?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does China Doll need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my China Doll turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low humidity; adjust care accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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