Guianan Quiina
quiina guianensis
Also known as: ["Guianan Quiina"]
Overview
A tropical tree species native to the Guianas and surrounding regions, known for its woody nature and ecological significance.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Quiinaceae |
| Genus: | Quiina |
| Botanical Name: | Quiina guianensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or large indoor container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- 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; adjust to avoid direct sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh, well-draining soil.
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 thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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 peat moss for acidity; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may wilt or turn brown; risk of root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicQuiina guianensis is toxic to cats, with the seeds and fruits posing the greatest risk. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and fruits of Quiina guianensis are toxic to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The plant's compounds can lead to significant health issues if ingested by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicQuiina guianensis contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The seeds and fruits are particularly hazardous, potentially leading to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Quiina guianensis commonly cultivated?
A: No, it is rare and primarily found in its native tropical habitats.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: Limited information is available, but it may have traditional uses in its native regions.
Q: How tall does Quiina guianensis grow?
A: It can grow into a medium to large tree, reaching heights of 20-30 meters in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Quiinaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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