Giant Deutzia
boehmeria macrophylla
Also known as: ["Giant Boehmeria","Large-leaved Boehmeria"]
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:
- 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.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
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
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- 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.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBoehmeria 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
Dogs
Non-toxicBoehmeria 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
Humans
Non-toxicBoehmeria 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
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 |
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