Poon Tree

calophyllum inophyllum

Also known as: ["Alexandrian Laurel","Nagchampa","Poon Tree"]

Family: Calophyllaceae Genus: Calophyllum Category: Trees

Overview

A large evergreen tree native to coastal regions of tropical Asia and the Pacific, known for its aromatic wood and medicinal properties.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Calophyllaceae
Genus: Calophyllum
Botanical Name: Calophyllum inophyllum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: coastal areas or tropical gardens, often as a specimen tree
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended properly.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead/diseased wood; light shaping can be done every 2–3 years.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed, otherwise focus on selecti
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some protection from intense midday sun in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from scorching by providing shade during peak summer hours; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions to avoid leaf burn.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate the plant regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy soils with sand or perlite; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.

Temperature

Thrives in warm tropical climates; ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers consistently warm conditions.

Protect from frost; maintain humidity in dry heat; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced slow-release fertilizer

Apply fertilizer evenly around the root zone; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots to develop.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture and warmth.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water for initial rooting of cuttings.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take 1–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity to prevent drying; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs; shape the plant to maintain an open form.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth; also remove any crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.

Tools

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

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

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 the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for recovery.

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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the root zone without wetting the leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or organic matter to improve structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and nutrients.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage; prolonged cold may lead to root rot or death.

Solution: Move the plant indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature leaf drop; may also increase water demand leading to dehydration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Calophyllum inophyllum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Calophyllum inophyllum can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Calophyllum inophyllum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Calophyllum inophyllum is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Calophyllum inophyllum. The toxic effects are similar to those in dogs, with potential for mild irritation and discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is observed.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Calophyllum inophyllum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds present in the seeds and bark may cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening unless consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Keep pets away from the plant, especially the seeds and bark. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Calophyllum inophyllum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The seeds and bark are particularly noted for their toxic properties, which can lead to mild physiological effects if ingested in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Wear gloves when handling to prevent skin irritation.
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 Calophyllum inophyllum suitable for coastal planting?

A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of coastal conditions and salt spray.

Q: Does the Poon Tree have any medicinal uses?

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

Q: How fast does Calophyllum inophyllum grow?

A: It grows at a moderate pace, typically reaching maturity over several years.

Quick Reference
Family: Calophyllaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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