Deerwood Tree
filicium decipiens
Also known as: ["False Blackwood","False Blackwood Tree"]
Overview
A medium-sized evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka, notable for its dense, dark green foliage and hard, durable wood.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Filicium |
| Botanical Name: | Filicium decipiens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor environments, rarely required outdoors
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; protect from direct afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
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
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions during flowering.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- 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, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several 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; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
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 root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; 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 coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth (extremes).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts; water less during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow under excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFilicium decipiens is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicFilicium decipiens is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicFilicium decipiens is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Filicium decipiens suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Does the Deerwood Tree produce any edible parts?
A: No, it is not known for producing edible fruits or other parts.
Q: How fast does Filicium decipiens grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically gaining about 1–2 feet per year under optimal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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