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planchonella dothioensis

Also known as: []

Family: Sapotaceae Genus: Planchonella Category: Trees

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the family Sapotaceae, native to certain regions of the Pacific.

Benefits & Perks

["rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ericales
Family: Sapotaceae
Genus: Planchonella
Botanical Name: Planchonella dothioensis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or sheltered outdoor location
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter and perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: unknown
  • Toughness Level: unknown
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • 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; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh midday sun; place in filtered light indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
unknown

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to dappled sunlight

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with 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 range.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged extremes.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth year-round.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with leaf nodes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a cutting.
  2. Apply hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. 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), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems; pinch tips for bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead/damaged growth; shape for airflow; encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased parts; shape evenly; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; refresh soil to maintain health.

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 thoroughly; ensure proper 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.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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; ensure aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in response to stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration in excessively high temperatures.

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

Yellowing leaves in Planchonella dothioensis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Planchonella dothioensis can result from water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration, both of which impair the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Planchonella dothioensis may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Planchonella dothioensis due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Planchonella dothioensis. The cyanogenic glycosides present are not highly concentrated, reducing the risk of severe toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pulp
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The cyanogenic glycosides in Planchonella dothioensis can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The low concentration of toxins means severe poisoning is unlikely but possible with large ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pulp
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Planchonella dothioensis contains small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon digestion. The physiological impact is primarily gastrointestinal distress and mild systemic effects due to low concentrations.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pulp
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of seeds and pulp. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Planchonella dothioensis commonly cultivated?

A: No, it is rare and primarily of interest to collectors and researchers.

Q: What is the natural habitat of Planchonella dothioensis?

A: It is native to certain Pacific regions, typically in tropical or subtropical environments.

Q: Does Planchonella dothioensis have any known uses?

A: Information on specific uses is limited, but it is primarily valued for its botanical significance.

Quick Reference
Family: Sapotaceae
Care: unknown
Light: partial shade to dappled sunli
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers"]
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