Ashoka Tree
saraca indica
Also known as: ["Ashoka","Sita Ashok"]
Overview
A small, evergreen tree native to the Indian subcontinent, known for its bright orange-red flowers and cultural significance.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Saraca |
| Botanical Name: | Saraca indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in sheltered spot with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can use a mix of loam, compost, and sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; rotate the plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable conditions, avoiding extreme fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain humidity in hot climates.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with at least two nodes.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take several weeks to months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; avoid overpotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; 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 good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or dieback; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; avoid cold drafts; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; stress may cause leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Saraca indica, particularly the seeds and bark. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Saraca indica seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds may cause irritation to the digestive tract, resulting in discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSaraca indica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation when ingested. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids and other bioactive substances that may affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Ashoka Tree suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it is a small tree and can be accommodated in medium-sized gardens.
Q: Does the Ashoka Tree require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, thriving in well-drained soil.
Q: Are the flowers of the Ashoka Tree fragrant?
A: Yes, the flowers are known for their pleasant fragrance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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