Madagascar almond
terminalia mantaly
Also known as: ["Madagascar almond tree","Mantaly tree"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to Madagascar, known for its ornamental foliage and attractive fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Genus: | Terminalia |
| Botanical Name: | Terminalia mantaly |
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":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning unless necessary
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 sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
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, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief drops to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth indicates establishment after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity around cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant spray.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above a node; remove dead or damaged growth.
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 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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in a shaded spot for a few days.
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, 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 organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures remain below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Terminalia mantaly seeds or unripe fruits. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Terminalia mantaly seeds or unripe fruits by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTerminalia mantaly contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Terminalia mantaly suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Does Terminalia mantaly produce edible fruits?
A: The fruits are not commonly consumed by humans.
Q: How fast does Terminalia mantaly grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching significant size over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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