Blue Marble Tree
elaeocarpus angustifolius
Also known as: ["Blue Marble Tree","Silk Tree"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to tropical regions, known for its distinctive blue fruits resembling marbles.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Elaeocarpaceae |
| Genus: | Elaeocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Elaeocarpus angustifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot in a sheltered spot, or in a garden bed with partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems if needed for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to increased light levels to prevent leaf burn; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; monitor for signs of sun stress like leaf scorch.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
monthly during growing season (spring and summer), every 2 months otherwise
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; choose a fertilizer with micronutrients for optimal growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or a specialized cutting mix.
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, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of individual branches; avoid heavy shearing to preserve natural form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood; also prune to manage size in containers.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, pruning saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; remove dead or crossing branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; 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 shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop during extreme temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage roots and slow metabolic processes, leading to leaf drop and potential dieback.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; protect from cold drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat above 90°F (32°C) can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicElaeocarpus angustifolius is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicElaeocarpus angustifolius is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or studies indicating that any part of the plant poses a risk to canine health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicElaeocarpus angustifolius is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the common name of Elaeocarpus angustifolius?
A: It is commonly known as the Blue Marble Tree.
Q: Is Elaeocarpus angustifolius toxic to pets?
A: The toxicity to pets is unknown.
Q: What are the care requirements for Elaeocarpus angustifolius?
A: It requires moderate care, toughness, and maintenance, suitable for outdoor landscaping.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elaeocarpaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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