Blind-your-eye mangrove

excoecaria agallocha

Also known as: ["River poison tree","Milky mangrove"]

Family: Euphorbiaceae Genus: Excoecaria Category: Trees

Overview

A mangrove species native to coastal regions of Asia and Oceania, known for its milky latex that can cause skin irritation and temporary blindness upon contact.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Genus: Excoecaria
Botanical Name: Excoecaria agallocha

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: coastal gardens or containers in warm, sheltered positions
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
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 leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

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 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2–3 years.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

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

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in water or soil.
  4. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.

Hormone

Optional but can help speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh, well-draining soil.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; 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 thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone but avoiding waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute 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); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Excoecaria agallocha may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Excoecaria agallocha can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Excoecaria agallocha may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Excoecaria agallocha due to excessive moisture or poor drainage, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Excoecaria agallocha is toxic to cats, with the latex and other parts containing compounds that can cause severe irritation and gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling lethargy skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
latex leaves bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care promptly.
Dogs
Toxic

The plant is toxic to dogs, primarily due to the irritant compounds in the latex and other parts. Ingestion can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling abdominal pain skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
latex leaves bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Excoecaria agallocha contains toxic latex that can cause severe irritation upon contact with skin or mucous membranes. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects due to the presence of phorbol esters and other irritant compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
severe skin irritation blistering eye pain vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
latex leaves bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if touched or eaten

Avoid contact with latex and plant parts. Wear protective gloves when handling. In case of contact, wash thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention if ingestion occurs.
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 Excoecaria agallocha safe to grow around pets?

A: No, the plant is toxic to dogs and cats due to its milky latex.

Q: What are the primary uses of this plant?

A: It is primarily used in coastal landscaping and as a source of traditional medicine in some regions.

Q: How should I handle this plant safely?

A: Wear gloves and avoid contact with the milky latex, which can cause skin irritation and temporary blindness.

Quick Reference
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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