Cockatoo Wood
pisonia grandis
Also known as: ["Cockatoo Tree","Birdlime Tree"]
Overview
A medium-sized tree native to tropical islands, known for its sticky seeds that adhere to birds, aiding dispersal.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus: | Pisonia |
| Botanical Name: | Pisonia grandis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal areas or tropical gardens with high humidity and protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially in dry environments
- 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: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
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 light to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered sunlight or dappled shade outdoors; indoors, use sheer curtains to diffuse direct sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide shade during peak summer hours.
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, sandy loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); sensitive to cold drafts and frost.
Keep away from drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods; apply fertilizer after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, place 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 potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation; ensure cuttings have at least one node submerged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, 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 is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid watering excessively during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Pisonia grandis. The toxic compounds in the seeds and sap can cause irritation, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pisonia grandis seeds or sap can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's irritant compounds may cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPisonia grandis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The seeds and sap are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances that may provoke adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the seeds sticky?
A: The sticky seeds evolved to adhere to birds, facilitating seed dispersal over long distances.
Q: Is this plant suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it requires a tropical outdoor environment with ample space.
Q: Does it produce flowers?
A: Yes, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers followed by sticky seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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