Bishopwood
bischofia javanica
Also known as: ["Bishopwood","Bischofia","Javanica"]
Overview
A large, deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its valuable timber and ecological significance.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus: | Bischofia |
| Botanical Name: | Bischofia javanica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with space for growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or biannually, or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
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 avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to partially dry between waterings, avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good water retention but fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from cold drafts; maintain stable warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
monthly during growing season (spring–summer), every 2 months otherwise
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering.
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 growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; several months to establish a strong root system.
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 thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/diseased growth, encourage bushier form; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
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, 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, protect from drafts, avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced vigor, or premature leaf drop in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water deeply but avoid waterlogging, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with stems/leaves.
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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds or bark of Bischofia javanica. The plant contains substances that can cause digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of seeds or bark of Bischofia javanica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBischofia javanica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and bark are known to contain substances that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bischofia javanica suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is suitable for urban landscapes due to its fast growth and shade tolerance.
Q: Does Bischofia javanica have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses include remedies for various ailments, though scientific validation is limited.
Q: How tall does Bischofia javanica grow?
A: It can reach heights of 30-40 meters in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Phyllanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
