Neolamarckia cadamba
mesua ferrea
Also known as: ["Ceylon Ironwood","Nagassari"]
Overview
A medium-sized evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its hard, heavy wood and fragrant white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Mesua |
| Botanical Name: | Mesua ferrea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only in very dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. A mix of potting soil, sand, and compost works well.
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 if needed, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but thrives with ample light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. Place in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade if grown in hot climates. Indoors, provide the brightest possible light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; avoid placing near east-facing windows in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in consistently warm conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (75–85°F / 24–29°C), humid, and partially shaded environment. Protect from direct sunlight.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand. Can also use a cactus or succulent mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks. Seed germination can take 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a propagator or plastic cover; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back. Avoid drastic cuts; maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth. Focus on structural improvement and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter. Use a container with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting during cold stress; scorching or stunted growth during excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage. Prolonged cold may lead to root rot or death.
Solution: Protect from frost and cold drafts. Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location. Use frost cloth or mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering. High temperatures combined with drought stress can be lethal.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation. Mist leaves occasionally to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, the seeds of Mesua ferrea can cause mild toxicity in cats if ingested, leading to gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Mesua ferrea contain oils that can be mildly toxic to dogs if ingested, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMesua ferrea, commonly known as the Ironwood tree, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, the seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested in large quantities due to their high oil content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mesua ferrea suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Does Mesua ferrea have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses include remedies for fever and skin ailments, though scientific validation is limited.
Q: How fast does Mesua ferrea grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, typically reaching maturity in 10–15 years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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