Kou
cordia subcordata
Also known as: ["Beach Cordia","Kou Tree"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to coastal regions, valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Cordia |
| Botanical Name: | Cordia subcordata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or open landscapes with protection from strong winds
- 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 organic matter; can tolerate sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical climates; ideal range 70–85°F (21–29°C); sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- 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 mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/diseased wood; 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 good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
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 necessary; 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 directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
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
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Cordia subcordata. Ingestion of seeds or bark can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potential neurological symptoms due to the alkaloids and other bioactive substances present in these parts of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cordia subcordata seeds and bark can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of alkaloids and other toxic compounds. The effects can range from mild discomfort to more serious conditions requiring veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCordia subcordata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and potential neurological effects if ingested in significant quantities. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids and other bioactive compounds that may interfere with normal physiological processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cordia subcordata suitable for coastal planting?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of coastal conditions and salt spray.
Q: Does the Kou tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it produces nectar-rich flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How fast does Cordia subcordata grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically reaching maturity within 5–10 years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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