White Trema
trema micrantha
Also known as: ["White Trema","Small-flowered Trema"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to tropical and subtropical regions, known for its fast growth and adaptability to various environments.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Genus: | Trema |
| Botanical Name: | Trema micrantha |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate to tropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogged conditions; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during winter.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize after repotting; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and humidity is moderate.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establishment may take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth; remove crossing or weak stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above buds or branches; remove debris promptly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a clean pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during growing season; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; apply mulch to insulate roots; use frost cloth for protection.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stagnate; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use evaporative cooling methods.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTrema micrantha is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicTrema micrantha is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicTrema micrantha is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Trema micrantha suitable for urban environments?
A: Yes, it is adaptable to urban conditions and can thrive in various soil types.
Q: Does Trema micrantha require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Does Trema micrantha have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses are limited, but further research may reveal potential benefits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cannabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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