Australian Red Cedar
toona ciliata
Also known as: ["Murray Red Cedar","Queensland Red Cedar"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to eastern Australia, known for its valuable timber and ornamental foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Genus: | Toona |
| Botanical Name: | Toona ciliata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate to subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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 tolerate a range of soil types but prefers loamy or sandy loam.
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 to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some protection from intense midday sun in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching by providing shade during peak hours; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in tropical to subtropical climates.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust watering and light exposure accordingly; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer evenly around the root zone; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
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
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches; thin out crowded areas; shape the canopy for better light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; position plant correctly; water and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce 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 compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting due to extreme cold or heat stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold may lead to root rot.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced growth; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Toona ciliata, particularly the seeds and bark. The plant contains irritant compounds that can affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Toona ciliata seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the digestive tract, causing discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicToona ciliata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The seeds and bark are the most toxic parts, containing irritant substances that may affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Toona ciliata suitable for small gardens?
A: No, it is a large tree and requires ample space.
Q: Does Toona ciliata produce flowers?
A: Yes, it produces small, fragrant white flowers in clusters.
Q: Is the timber of Toona ciliata valuable?
A: Yes, it is highly prized for its durability and workability.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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