Mangrove Apple
heritiera littoralis
Also known as: ["Looking-glass Mangrove","Brick Mangrove"]
Overview
A large mangrove tree native to coastal regions of the Indo-Pacific, characterized by silvery, reflective leaves and aerial roots.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Heritiera |
| Botanical Name: | Heritiera littoralis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal areas or large containers in tropical and subtropical gardens
- Suitable For:
- 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, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy mixes.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead growth or control size.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with high organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for humidity; avoid placing near drafty windows or vents.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems, pinch back tips for bushier growth, cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth, shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, maintain size.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy or active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
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 sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, may lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced growth, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves, stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHeritiera littoralis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from contact or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHeritiera littoralis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from contact or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHeritiera littoralis is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Heritiera littoralis suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree requiring coastal or tropical outdoor conditions.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses are limited, but research is ongoing for potential applications.
Q: How does it adapt to coastal environments?
A: It tolerates salt spray, waterlogging, and anaerobic soils through specialized aerial roots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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