Jamaica Redwood, False Mahogany
pterocarpus officinalis
Also known as: ["Jamaica Redwood","False Mahogany"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to the Caribbean and Central America, known for its reddish wood and ornamental value.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Pterocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Pterocarpus officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity drops below 40%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter and sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- 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.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; place in filtered sunlight outdoors or near a bright window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun.
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, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
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
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- 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 (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth 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 without waterlogging.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain form and health.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or overgrown branches, encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new 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, use fresh soil mix, water after repotting.
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, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pot with bubble wrap, avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Pterocarpus officinalis. Ingestion of seeds or bark can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pterocarpus officinalis seeds and bark can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicPterocarpus officinalis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitivities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pterocarpus officinalis suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree and best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: What is the primary use of Pterocarpus officinalis?
A: It is valued for its timber and ornamental purposes in landscaping.
Q: Does Pterocarpus officinalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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