Stickseed
pisonia aculeata
Also known as: ["Stickseed","Pisonia"]
Overview
A shrub or small tree known for its sticky seeds that adhere to animals and humans.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus: | Pisonia |
| Botanical Name: | Pisonia aculeata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- 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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
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.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, dead leaves, and spent flowers to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
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 moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is 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
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop; stunted growth in cold; scorching or browning in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use shade cloth outdoors.
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 growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Pisonia aculeata upon ingestion. The plant's irritant compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and may lead to systemic effects requiring prompt veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Pisonia aculeata by dogs can result in gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The plant's irritant properties can cause significant discomfort and may require veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicPisonia aculeata contains irritant compounds that can cause significant skin and mucous membrane irritation upon contact. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity due to the presence of unknown toxic principles.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pisonia aculeata toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Pisonia aculeata reproduce?
A: It reproduces via sticky seeds that attach to animals for dispersal.
Q: Is Pisonia aculeata suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is not typically grown indoors due to its outdoor shrub nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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