Madagascar Myrrh
commiphora madagascariensis
Also known as: ["Madagascar Myrrh","Myrrh Tree"]
Overview
A small, deciduous tree native to Madagascar, known for its aromatic resin used in traditional medicine and perfumery.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Burseraceae |
| Genus: | Commiphora |
| Botanical Name: | Commiphora madagascariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- 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 is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be pruned more heavily if overgrown, but avoid removing more than one-third of the pla
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in the brightest location indoors; move outdoors in spring/summer with protection from harsh midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid low-light conditions.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry out between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in hot, arid conditions; sensitive to cold.
Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C); protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not waterlogged.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and cactus soil; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain high humidity; use sterile tools to prevent rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant; remove leggy or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound; infrequent repotting is preferred due to its slow growth.
Checklist
Check for root-bound signs; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stops growth; may develop root rot or dieback due to cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Keep in a warm, dry location; protect from drafts; avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the resin or bark of Commiphora madagascariensis. The plant's compounds can irritate the feline digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Commiphora madagascariensis resin or bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The compounds present may cause irritation to the dog's digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicCommiphora madagascariensis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The resin and bark are the primary sources of these compounds, which may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Commiphora madagascariensis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: What are the traditional uses of this plant?
A: The resin is used in traditional medicine and perfumery.
Q: How difficult is it to care for this plant?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance, suitable for enthusiasts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Burseraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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