Umbrella Tree

antiaris toxicaria

Also known as: ["Makandu","Balete Tree","Antiaris Tree"]

Family: Moraceae Genus: Antiaris Category: Trees

Overview

A large, fast-growing tree native to tropical regions, known for its toxic sap and distinctive umbrella-like canopy.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Moraceae
Genus: Antiaris
Botanical Name: Antiaris toxicaria

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: tropical greenhouse or indoor pot in humid environment
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
  • 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 or as needed to control size and shape.
  • 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; can tolerate partial shade but may stretch.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to intense light to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, rich in organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid drafts.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of stems to encourage branching; avoid cutting into old wood.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged stems, clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, 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, trim roots if necessary, use 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 saturation; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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 for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot with bubble wrap; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Antiaris toxicaria may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Antiaris toxicaria can result from water stress, root damage, or pest infestations, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Antiaris toxicaria may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Antiaris toxicaria is often caused by excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Highly Toxic

Antiaris toxicaria is equally dangerous to cats, with antiarin posing severe cardiotoxic and neurotoxic risks. Cats are particularly sensitive to the plant's toxins, which can cause rapid cardiac and neurological failure. Even minimal exposure can be life-threatening.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea difficulty breathing tremors seizures cardiac arrest
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten or touched

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Immediate veterinary attention is required if exposure is suspected, as delays can be fatal.
Dogs
Highly Toxic

The plant is extremely toxic to dogs, with antiarin causing severe cardiotoxic and neurotoxic effects. Ingestion can lead to rapid cardiac failure and neurological distress, often proving fatal without prompt veterinary intervention. Skin contact can also cause severe irritation and systemic absorption of toxins.

⚠️ Symptoms:
lethargy vomiting diarrhea difficulty breathing seizures cardiac arrest
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten or touched

Keep dogs away from the plant at all times. If ingestion or contact is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Humans
Highly Toxic

Antiaris toxicaria, commonly known as the Upas tree, is one of the most toxic plants in the world. Its sap, leaves, bark, and fruits contain potent cardiotoxic and neurotoxic compounds, primarily antiarin. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiovascular and neurological effects, including cardiac arrest and respiratory failure. Contact with the sap can cause severe dermatitis and systemic reactions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
severe skin irritation burning sensation difficulty breathing nausea vomiting diarrhea cardiac arrest respiratory failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten or touched

Strictly avoid ingestion or contact with any part of the plant. Wear protective clothing when handling, and seek immediate medical attention if exposure occurs.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Umbrella Tree safe for pets?

A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the uses of Antiaris toxicaria?

A: Historically, its sap was used to make poison darts, and the wood is sometimes used for lightweight construction.

Q: How should I care for an Umbrella Tree?

A: It requires moderate watering, full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soil.

Quick Reference
Family: Moraceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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