Kadam Tree
neolamarckia cadamba
Also known as: ["Anthocephalus cadamba","Kadam"]
Overview
A large tropical tree known for its fragrant, spherical flowers and broad, evergreen leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Neolamarckia |
| Botanical Name: | Neolamarckia cadamba |
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":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with added organic matter like compost or coco coir.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may grow leggy in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; protect from direct afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil by mixing in organic matter.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures and dislikes drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or a standard potting mix with added drainage material.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune selectively, remove dead/diseased parts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts in temperatures below 60°F (15°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid placing near cold drafts or windows.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or brown leaf edges due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade during peak heat, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, water before feeding, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicNeolamarckia cadamba is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicNeolamarckia cadamba is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicNeolamarckia cadamba, commonly known as the Kadam tree, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with the consumption or handling of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Kadam Tree suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for urban landscapes due to its fast growth and ability to thrive in tropical climates.
Q: Does the Kadam Tree require full sun?
A: Yes, it prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
Q: Are the flowers of the Kadam Tree edible?
A: The flowers are not typically consumed, though they are fragrant and attract pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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