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sterculia murex

Also known as: []

Family: Malvaceae Genus: Sterculia Category: Trees

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:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers
  • 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.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
unknown

moderate

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
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Apply rooting 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

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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
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

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

Wilting in Sterculia murex can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Sterculia murex may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Sterculia murex is often associated with excessive moisture, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

The 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:
vomiting diarrhea depression loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure the plant is inaccessible to cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The 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:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal discomfort
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

The 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:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea dizziness weakness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if accidental 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 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
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers"]
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