Chinese Mahogany

toona sinensis

Also known as: ["Chinese Toon","Chinese Cedar"]

Family: Meliaceae Genus: Toona Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree native to East Asia, valued for its edible young leaves and timber.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Sapindales
Family: Meliaceae
Genus: Toona
Botanical Name: Toona sinensis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various soil types
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
  • Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
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 old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage); stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil); root rot (foul smell or black roots).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, fertile loam

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

Test soil pH annually; amend with compost yearly; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Temperature

Prefers temperate climates; ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged frost.

Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; switch to low-nitrogen formula for mature plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

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

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

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

Medium

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

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before the growing season starts.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new 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.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the root zone without wetting foliage.
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 well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; potential dieback of tender shoots in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.

Hot Stress

Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or yellowing; reduced vigor in prolonged high heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent watering to combat heat stress.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Toona sinensis can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Toona sinensis is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Toona sinensis may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Toona sinensis is typically caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential loss of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Toona sinensis is not considered toxic to cats under normal circumstances. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

under normal conditions

No special precautions are needed for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Toona sinensis is not considered toxic to dogs under normal circumstances. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

under normal conditions

No special precautions are needed for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Toona sinensis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in significant amounts. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive discomfort, though severe cases may involve more systemic effects.

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

if eaten in large quantities

Avoid consuming large quantities of seeds or bark. Use only in moderation for culinary purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Toona sinensis suitable for small gardens?

A: No, it is a large tree and requires ample space.

Q: Are the leaves of Toona sinensis edible?

A: Yes, young leaves are used as a culinary herb in some cuisines.

Q: Does Toona sinensis attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

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