Yellow Spurge Wood
ochrosia elliptica
Also known as: ["Yellow Spurge Wood","Australian Yellow Wood"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized tree native to Australia, known for its toxic sap and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Ochrosia |
| Botanical Name: | Ochrosia elliptica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot, or as a container plant in a sunny patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
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: Well-draining mix with cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- 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 sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Protect from drafts; use a humidifier in dry heat; monitor temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- 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), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorched leaves in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
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
ToxicOchrosia elliptica is toxic to cats due to its alkaloid content, which can cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic alkaloids in Ochrosia elliptica are highly poisonous to dogs, affecting their nervous system and causing severe symptoms that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOchrosia elliptica contains toxic alkaloids, particularly strychnine-related compounds, which can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with neuromuscular function and can lead to paralysis and respiratory failure in severe cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ochrosia elliptica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of Ochrosia elliptica?
A: It is primarily grown for ornamental purposes due to its attractive foliage.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Ochrosia elliptica?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance, making it suitable for intermediate gardeners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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