Poison Nut Tree
strychnos nux-vomica
Also known as: ["Quaker Button","Stinking Nut","Nux Vomica"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its highly toxic seeds containing strychnine and brucine.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Genus: | Strychnos |
| Botanical Name: | Strychnos nux-vomica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: protected outdoor garden or large container in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting soil; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in stable conditions with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use a cactus/succulent mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
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; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress; wilting or browning edges suggest extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Protect from drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C); use a space heater or move to a warmer location; insulate pots in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may lead to reduced vigor or flower/fruit drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering to combat dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth season; dilute fertilizer; water before application; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Highly ToxicStrychnos nux-vomica is extremely toxic to cats due to its strychnine and brucine content. These compounds disrupt neurological function, causing severe muscle spasms, convulsions, and respiratory failure. Cats are particularly sensitive to such toxins, and even small amounts can be lethal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Highly ToxicThe alkaloids strychnine and brucine in Strychnos nux-vomica are highly toxic to dogs, causing severe neurological effects. Strychnine poisoning in dogs leads to hyperexcitability, muscle rigidity, and convulsions, which can be fatal without prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Highly ToxicStrychnos nux-vomica contains potent alkaloids, primarily strychnine and brucine, which act as potent neurotoxins. Strychnine specifically inhibits glycine receptors in the central nervous system, leading to hyperexcitability and convulsions. Brucine has similar but less potent effects. Ingestion can cause severe neurological and muscular disturbances, potentially leading to respiratory failure and death.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Strychnos nux-vomica safe to grow in a garden?
A: No, due to its highly toxic nature, it should only be grown by experienced horticulturists in controlled environments.
Q: What are the primary uses of Strychnos nux-vomica?
A: Historically, its seeds have been used in traditional medicine and as a source of strychnine, though modern use is highly restricted due to toxicity.
Q: How should one handle Strychnos nux-vomica?
A: Extreme caution is advised; direct contact should be avoided, and protective gloves must be worn when handling the plant or its seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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