Silky Terminalia
terminalia sericea
Also known as: ["Silver Terminalia","Wollige Terminalia"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to southern Africa, characterized by its silvery-grey, silky leaves and small, greenish flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Genus: | Terminalia |
| Botanical Name: | Terminalia sericea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in arid or semi-arid regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
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 the plant if necessary to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant weekly for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in direct sun if leaves show signs of scorching.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during dry periods, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is well-aerated.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot temperatures, ideally 20–35°C (68–95°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; use a balanced formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; 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 propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or crossing branches; shape the plant; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to encourage deep root growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during frost; provide a layer of mulch to insulate roots; use frost cloth for protection in mild cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced growth; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
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 fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Terminalia sericea seeds or bark. The plant's compounds can cause irritation, though cats are generally less likely to consume large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Terminalia sericea seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains compounds that may cause irritation to the digestive system, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTerminalia sericea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing tannins and other secondary metabolites that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Terminalia sericea suitable for dry climates?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common uses of Terminalia sericea?
A: It is primarily used for landscaping and as a source of traditional medicine in some regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during dry p |
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