White Milk Tree
lophanthera lactescens
Also known as: ["White Milk Tree"]
Overview
A tropical tree species native to Central and South America, known for its distinctive milky sap and ornamental value.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus: | Lophanthera |
| Botanical Name: | Lophanthera lactescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
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 mix with organic matter, such as cactus soil with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or after flowering to maintain form.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in filtered light indoors, provide dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid prolonged direct sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild seasonal fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Protect from drafts, maintain stable temps, avoid sudden changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems, pinch tips for bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead/diseased parts.
Tools
Clean pruners, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune at nodes, remove deadwood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; increase diameter by 2–3 inches.
Method
Remove gently, trim roots if crowded, use fresh soil, ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Check root bound, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
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, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact.
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
Non-toxicLophanthera lactescens is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicLophanthera lactescens is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicLophanthera lactescens is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lophanthera lactescens suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation in tropical or subtropical climates.
Q: Does this plant require special care?
A: It thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade, with moderate watering.
Q: Does it produce flowers?
A: Yes, it produces small, fragrant flowers, though flowering may be less frequent in cultivation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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