Cempedak
urena lobata
Also known as: ["Cempedak","Wild Cotton"]
Overview
A herbaceous plant with lobed leaves and small, pinkish flowers, often found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Urena |
| Botanical Name: | Urena lobata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, frost-free regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand; can include some organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning in winter.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, use a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions with high humidity.
Protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth; increase humidity in dry heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; seeds can also be used but are less common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least one node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep warm and moist.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for initial rooting; add perlite or sand for better drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take an additional 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove leggy or crossing stems to improve airflow.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also helps control size in containers.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing leaves in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death; may enter dormancy if too cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, or wilting; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Urena lobata, especially if they consume the seeds or roots. The plant's toxic compounds can induce severe gastrointestinal and systemic reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Urena lobata, particularly the seeds and roots, can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity in dogs. The plant's compounds may cause significant discomfort and health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicUrena lobata contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity upon ingestion. The seeds and roots are particularly concentrated in these compounds, leading to adverse physiological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Urena lobata toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Urena lobata grow?
A: It is a fast-growing, herbaceous plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.
Q: Is Urena lobata suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant due to its size and growth habits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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