Bucida
cordia alliodora
Also known as: ["Bucida","Spanish elm","nogal de monte"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to Central and South America, valued for its timber and ornamental qualities.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Cordia |
| Botanical Name: | Cordia alliodora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; cactus mix or loam-based potting soil.
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:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight, protect from harsh midday sun, adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–14 days, depending on climate and soil moisture
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in tropical to subtropical climates.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent 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, 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), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage branching, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
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; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may yellow or drop, growth slows, risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection, move to a warmer location, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced growth, or leaf drop in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade during peak heat, water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before application, avoid contact with roots, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer), reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest parts of Cordia alliodora, especially the seeds or bark, may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant's toxic compounds can cause irritation and discomfort in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cordia alliodora seeds or bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains compounds that may cause irritation to the digestive system in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCordia alliodora contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The bark and seeds are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids and other secondary metabolites that can irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cordia alliodora suitable for small gardens?
A: No, it is a large tree and requires ample space.
Q: Does Cordia alliodora produce flowers?
A: Yes, it produces small, fragrant white flowers.
Q: Is the wood of Cordia alliodora valuable?
A: Yes, it is highly valued for its durability and use in construction.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, depending o |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
