unknown
sterculia murex
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Sterculiaceae, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Sterculia |
| Botanical Name: | Sterculia murex |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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; can include some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: unknown
- Toughness Level: unknown
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- 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; 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 scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
unknownmoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended 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.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
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 for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or leaf scorch 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; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
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
ToxicThe seeds and pods of Sterculia murex are toxic to cats, with toxic compounds that can lead to severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and pods of Sterculia murex are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can disrupt metabolic processes and cause significant health issues upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe seeds and pods of Sterculia murex contain toxic compounds that can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with normal cellular functions and can lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sterculia murex toxic to pets?
A: Unknown, no specific studies are available.
Q: What is the common name for Sterculia murex?
A: No common name is widely recognized.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Sterculia murex?
A: Information on care difficulty is not available.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | unknown |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store