Miswak
salvadora persica
Also known as: ["Arak tree","Toothbrush tree","Peelu"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, known for its use in traditional oral hygiene practices.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Salvadoraceae |
| Genus: | Salvadora |
| Botanical Name: | Salvadora persica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–40°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, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates heat but protect from frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize in early morning or evening; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common and reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid 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 perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
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 with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; roots may rot in cold, damp soil; leaves may turn brown or drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry too quickly.
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 leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSalvadora persica is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSalvadora persica is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant has been used traditionally without reported adverse effects on canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSalvadora persica, commonly known as the miswak or toothbrush tree, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been traditionally used for oral hygiene and possesses antimicrobial properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salvadora persica safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Salvadora persica?
A: It has been traditionally used as a natural toothbrush and for its medicinal properties.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Salvadora persica?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant and can thrive in arid conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salvadoraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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