Bombay Ash
duabanga grandiflora
Also known as: ["Bombay Ash","Swamp Mahogany"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its large, showy flowers and rapid growth.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Genus: | Duabanga |
| Botanical Name: | Duabanga grandiflora |
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":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead/damaged growth; light pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some protection from intense midday sun in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak heat; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season, monthly in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
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 peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting spray bottle.
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 node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining health and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or early growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; adjust frequency based on season (less in winter, more in active growth periods).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDuabanga grandiflora is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicDuabanga grandiflora is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicDuabanga grandiflora is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human health.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Duabanga grandiflora suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree and requires outdoor space.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: How fast does Duabanga grandiflora grow?
A: It is known for its rapid growth rate.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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