Madagascar Strychnos
strychnos madagascariensis
Also known as: ["Madagascar Strychnos","Strychnos of Madagascar"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to Madagascar, known for its toxic properties and potential medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Genus: | Strychnos |
| Botanical Name: | Strychnos madagascariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or large container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate 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: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct light to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, keep near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with 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 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates a range but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased parts, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
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, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, adjust light.
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, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration if exposed to prolonged high temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before applying, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicStrychnos madagascariensis is toxic to cats, with the seeds and berries containing strychnine and brucine. These toxins can cause severe neurological and muscular effects, including convulsions, muscle rigidity, and respiratory failure in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and berries of Strychnos madagascariensis are highly toxic to dogs due to the presence of strychnine and brucine. These compounds cause severe neurological and muscular disturbances, leading to convulsions, muscle rigidity, and potential respiratory failure in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicStrychnos madagascariensis contains strychnine and brucine, which are potent neurotoxins. Ingestion can lead to severe neurological and muscular effects, including convulsions, muscle rigidity, and respiratory failure. These compounds interfere with neuromuscular transmission, causing widespread muscle contractions and potential paralysis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Strychnos madagascariensis safe for pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the traditional uses of this plant?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, though its toxicity requires extreme caution.
Q: How difficult is it to grow?
A: It requires moderate care and specific tropical conditions to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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