Brazilian Raintree
caesalpinia pluviosa
Also known as: ["Brazilian Raintree","Safrol"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Brazil, known for its feathery foliage and bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Caesalpinia |
| Botanical Name: | Caesalpinia pluviosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sunny areas
- 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 root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter. Cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to full sun gradually if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal for maximum light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth. Prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth. Move potted plants indoors during cold spells. Avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering. Stress may lead to pest susceptibility.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat. Increase watering frequency but ensure good drainage. Use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; monitor for salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Caesalpinia pluviosa, particularly from the seeds and leaves. The toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and systemic effects, necessitating prompt veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Caesalpinia pluviosa by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. The toxic compounds in the seeds and leaves can cause significant distress and require immediate veterinary attention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCaesalpinia pluviosa contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion. The seeds and leaves are particularly hazardous, containing substances that may interfere with normal cellular functions and lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Caesalpinia pluviosa suitable for indoor growing?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor landscapes due to its size and growth habit.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and reduce watering in winter.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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