Wave of Bliss
colubrina asiatica
Also known as: ["Sea Box","Creeper of Bliss"]
Overview
A sprawling, evergreen vine native to coastal regions of Asia and the Pacific, valued for its ornamental foliage and adaptability to harsh environments.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus: | Colubrina |
| Botanical Name: | Colubrina asiatica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or containers in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but benefits from enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure gradually to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant to direct sunlight slowly over weeks; protect from intense midday sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting soil; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions, avoiding extremes; tolerates mild frost but grows best in tropical climates.
Monitor temperature changes; use a thermometer to track conditions; adjust care based on seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common and reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid disturbing cuttings until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems; best done during active growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves, clean cloth.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost or aged manure for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaf edges in heat stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage; prolonged cold may lead to root rot or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location or indoors during cold spells; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth; may also increase water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid overfertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest parts of Colubrina asiatica. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Colubrina asiatica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but care should be taken to prevent pets from consuming it.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicColubrina asiatica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Colubrina asiatica suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of salt spray and sandy soils, making it ideal for coastal landscapes.
Q: How fast does Colubrina asiatica grow?
A: It grows moderately fast, often spreading several feet in a single growing season.
Q: Does Colubrina asiatica require pruning?
A: Light pruning may be needed to control its spread, but it generally maintains a manageable form without extensive maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rhamnaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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