Oriental Cassine
cassine orientalis
Also known as: ["Oriental Cassine"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Celastraceae, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Celastrales |
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Genus: | Cassine |
| Botanical Name: | Cassine orientalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
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 if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but prefers bright conditions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade if in a very hot climate. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable, warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- 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 (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in 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.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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 until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to monthly in winter dormancy. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use correct dilution; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during active growth. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Cassine orientalis, particularly from its berries and seeds, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Cassine orientalis by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the plant's toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCassine orientalis contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion. The berries and seeds are particularly hazardous, leading to gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cassine orientalis toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is currently unavailable.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Cassine orientalis?
A: It requires moderate care, making it suitable for intermediate gardeners.
Q: Does Cassine orientalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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