Geiger tree
cordia sebestena
Also known as: ["Geiger tree","Scarlet cordia"]
Overview
A tropical tree known for its vibrant orange-red flowers and dense foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Cordia |
| Botanical Name: | Cordia sebestena |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical 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, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy soils if amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if the plant becomes leggy or overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement in open areas for maximum light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant regularly for even growth; prune lower branches to allow light penetration; use reflective mulch to enhance light reflection.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, sensitive to frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air conditioning vents; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during winter.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Avoid fertilizing in winter; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common and reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid (60–70%), bright indirect light, and sheltered from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss blend) or coarse sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage branching, and removal of crossing or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased wood, and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above a node or branch junction; remove dead or diseased wood first.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil mix, water thoroughly, and place in shade for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; acclimate to light gradually.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply slowly to ensure deep penetration, continue until water drains from the bottom, water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter when growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, stunted growth, or flower bud abortion in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Growth halts, leaves may turn yellow or brown, plant becomes susceptible to root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots; use frost cloth for outdoor plants in cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering frequency; mist foliage during extreme heat to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and mid-summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during active growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the fruits or seeds of Cordia sebestena. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to cats' sensitivity to certain plant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cordia sebestena fruits and seeds can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCordia sebestena, commonly known as Geiger tree, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The fruits and seeds are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances that may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cordia sebestena?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Cordia sebestena require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Cordia sebestena suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and well-suited for coastal environments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
