Satinleaf
malpighia coccigera
Also known as: ["Satinleaf","Three-lobed Acer"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to the Caribbean and Central America, known for its glossy, three-lobed leaves and bright red fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus: | Malpighia |
| Botanical Name: | Malpighia coccigera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot in bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, less often in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix like cactus soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon rays; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler in winter but above 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, plastic wrap, misting spray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips, selective branch removal, thinning dense areas.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too big to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration despite adequate watering.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, stop in winter
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-toxicMalpighia coccigera is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk of toxicity to felines through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicMalpighia coccigera is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicMalpighia coccigera is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Malpighia coccigera toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Satinleaf attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, leaf spots, and dropping flowers or fruits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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