Karanj

pongamia pinnata

Also known as: ["Indian beech","pongam bean tree","pongamia"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Pongamia Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree native to tropical and temperate Asia, valued for its oil-rich seeds and medicinal properties.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Pongamia
Botanical Name: Pongamia pinnata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in full sun, adaptable to various soil types
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only in very dry conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with good structure.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; 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 on young plants.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement receives ample light.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), root rot, or stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries between waterings, and adjust frequency based on season and weather.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.5).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for better growth.

Temperature

Thrives in 65–95°F (18–35°C); prefers warm, tropical conditions; tolerates mild frosts but not prolonged cold.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering for temperature extremes.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer

Fertilize lightly during growth; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed propagation; seeds are more reliable but slower.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and humidity is moderate.

Environment

Warm (75–85°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.

Timeline

Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination takes 2–4 weeks with establishment over several months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above leaf nodes; remove crossing or crowded branches; thin dense growth.

Pruning Plan

Shape plant, remove dead/diseased growth, and encourage bushier form; focus on structural improvement.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape plant; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; ensure drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil and space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid wet foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure even moisture without waterlogging, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the root ball, avoiding foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf damage in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Move to a sheltered location; apply mulch to protect roots; use frost cloth in cold snaps.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use evaporative cooling methods like misting.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in growing season; avoid winter feeding; monitor for salt buildup.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Pongamia pinnata can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may be caused by water stress, pests, or diseases. It can also result from environmental stressors like excessive sunlight or poor soil conditions.

Wilting in Pongamia pinnata is typically a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root issues such as root rot. It can also occur in response to extreme temperatures or pest infestations that damage the plant's vascular system.

Leaf spots on Pongamia pinnata are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to necrotic areas on the leaves. These spots can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and, if severe, cause premature leaf drop.

Rotting in Pongamia pinnata is often associated with root or stem rot caused by overwatering or fungal pathogens. This can lead to the decay of plant tissues, reduced nutrient uptake, and eventual plant death if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Pongamia pinnata is toxic to cats, with the seeds and pods containing compounds that can cause significant gastrointestinal and neurological distress.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian promptly if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The seeds and pods of Pongamia pinnata are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Pongamia pinnata contains karanjin and pongamol, which can cause mild to moderate toxicity if ingested. These compounds can affect the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and pods. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Pongamia pinnata suitable for urban planting?

A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in urban environments with adequate space.

Q: Does Pongamia pinnata have any medicinal uses?

A: Yes, its seeds and oil are used in traditional medicine for various ailments.

Q: How fast does Pongamia pinnata grow?

A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, reaching maturity within 10-15 years.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–14 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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