Tacamahac
calophyllum tacamahaca
Also known as: ["Tacamahac tree","Calophyllum tree"]
Overview
A large tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its valuable timber and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","fast growing","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Calophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Calophyllum tacamahaca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden spot with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent leaf burn; protect from direct midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in stable conditions with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain stable warmth; protect from drafts and extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer after watering to avoid root burn; stop feeding in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, keep warm and bright indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F or 24–29°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.
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 dead/diseased parts, shape as needed, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose right pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, adjust care temporarily.
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, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and increase susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Protect from drafts and cold windows; maintain consistent warmth; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid winter feeding.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume the seeds or bark of Calophyllum tacamahaca. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the seeds or bark of Calophyllum tacamahaca. The toxicity is not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and bark of Calophyllum tacamahaca contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calophyllum tacamahaca toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.
Q: What are the uses of Calophyllum tacamahaca?
A: It is primarily valued for its timber and has traditional medicinal uses.
Q: How difficult is it to grow Calophyllum tacamahaca?
A: It is challenging to grow and requires expert care due to its specific environmental needs.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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