Giant Deutzia

boehmeria macrophylla

Also known as: ["Giant Boehmeria","Large-leaved Boehmeria"]

Family: Urticaceae Genus: Boehmeria Category: Leaf Plants

Overview

A large, herbaceous plant with broad leaves and a shrubby growth habit, native to tropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Urticales
Family: Urticaceae
Genus: Boehmeria
Botanical Name: Boehmeria macrophylla

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Leaf Plants
  • Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid, sheltered area
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor environments
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter, such as a mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or biannually.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

rich, well-draining, organic soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from extreme heat/cold.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall)

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring/summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; thin out crowded stems.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant; encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Clean pruners, scissors, or shears.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +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; promotes fresh soil and root space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
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; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.

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

Yellowing leaves in Boehmeria macrophylla may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Boehmeria macrophylla can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Boehmeria macrophylla are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Boehmeria macrophylla due to excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Boehmeria macrophylla is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific precautions are necessary for cats around Boehmeria macrophylla.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Boehmeria macrophylla is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific precautions are necessary for dogs around Boehmeria macrophylla.
Humans
Non-toxic

Boehmeria macrophylla is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human health.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific precautions are necessary for human handling or consumption of Boehmeria macrophylla.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Boehmeria macrophylla toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant require full sun?

A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate shade.

Q: What are common issues with this plant?

A: Common problems include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.

Quick Reference
Family: Urticaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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