Rogers' Sterculia

sterculia rogersii

Also known as: ["Rogers' Sterculia"]

Family: Malvaceae Genus: Sterculia Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical tree species native to Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive foliage and potential ornamental value.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Sterculia
Botanical Name: Sterculia rogersii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years, depending on growth rate and desired shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
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 sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth may indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

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

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes cold drafts.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.

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 medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or 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 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings warm and humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown branches.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.

Method

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

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots 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 perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; may show signs of shock after sudden temperature changes.

Cold Stress

Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may show signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Sterculia rogersii may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Sterculia rogersii can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to root damage and impaired water transport.

Leaf spots on Sterculia rogersii may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Sterculia rogersii is often associated with overwatering or poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from the seeds and pods of Sterculia rogersii. The toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances, requiring prompt medical intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression incoordination tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of the seeds and pods of Sterculia rogersii by dogs can lead to significant toxicity. The toxic compounds affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems, potentially causing severe illness.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

The seeds and pods of Sterculia rogersii contain toxic compounds that can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with normal cellular functions and can lead to systemic toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea dizziness weakness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and pods. Keep away from children and pets.
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 Sterculia rogersii toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How tall does Sterculia rogersii grow?

A: It typically grows into a medium-sized tree, reaching heights of 15-25 meters.

Q: Does Sterculia rogersii require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions.

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