False Mulberry
cecropia obtusifolia
Also known as: ["Snakewood","Cecropia palmata"]
Overview
A fast-growing tropical tree with large, lobed leaves and hollow stems that provide shelter for ants.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Cecropia |
| Botanical Name: | Cecropia obtusifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: tropical garden or large indoor space with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter; cactus mix with added compost or peat works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can handle significant pruning but avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter for nutrients; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable warmth; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season, every 3 months otherwise
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F / 24–29°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 3–6 weeks; new growth indicates establishment, typically within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove leggy or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune above nodes; remove dead/damaged parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
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 health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water lightly.
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 saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage; frost can be fatal.
Solution: Protect from drafts; move indoors during cold spells; maintain consistent warmth; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration despite adequate watering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCecropia obtusifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to feline health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCecropia obtusifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known substances that would pose a risk to canine health when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCecropia obtusifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cecropia obtusifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How fast does Cecropia obtusifolia grow?
A: It is a fast-growing tree, often reaching significant height within a few years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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