Mayten
maytenus boaria
Also known as: ["Chilean Mayten","Hojillo"]
Overview
A slow-growing, evergreen tree native to South America, known for its dense foliage and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Celastrales |
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Genus: | Maytenus |
| Botanical Name: | Maytenus boaria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12 to 35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but may become leggy in deep shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor for leaf scorch; rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–10. Prefers temperatures between 50–75°F (10–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may suffer in prolonged freezing or extreme heat.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care based on seasonal extremes.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage denser growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches in diameter increase).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Maytenus boaria is generally slow-growing and does not require frequent repotting.
Checklist
Check root bound status; trim roots; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust 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. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, browning leaf edges, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth may slow or stop; young plants are more susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in severe cold; avoid planting in exposed, windy areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid feeds; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMaytenus boaria is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMaytenus boaria is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMaytenus boaria is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Maytenus boaria suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a manageable size, but it is best suited for larger landscapes due to its potential height.
Q: How fast does Maytenus boaria grow?
A: It is a slow-growing tree, typically adding only a few inches per year.
Q: Does Maytenus boaria require special soil conditions?
A: It thrives in well-drained soil but is adaptable to various soil types.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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