Poison Bulb Tree
strychnos pungens
Also known as: ["Poison Bulb Tree","Strychnine Tree"]
Overview
A small tree native to southern Africa, known for its toxic seeds containing strychnine and brucine.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Genus: | Strychnos |
| Botanical Name: | Strychnos pungens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 cactus or succulent soil base.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid sudden light changes.
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 overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring–summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruners, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove gently; trim roots if needed; place in 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; use fresh soil; water lightly.
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, ensuring even saturation; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; 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 organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade; 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
ToxicCats are also highly sensitive to the neurotoxins strychnine and brucine in Strychnos pungens. Ingestion can result in severe neurological effects, such as seizures, muscle spasms, and respiratory failure. The toxins interfere with nerve transmission, causing uncontrolled muscle contractions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are highly susceptible to the neurotoxins strychnine and brucine found in Strychnos pungens. Ingestion can cause severe neurological symptoms, including seizures, muscle stiffness, and respiratory distress. The toxins disrupt normal nerve function, leading to life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicStrychnos pungens contains strychnine and brucine, which are potent neurotoxins. Ingestion can lead to severe neurological and muscular effects, including convulsions, muscle rigidity, and respiratory failure. These compounds interfere with glycine receptors in the central nervous system, leading to uncontrolled muscle contractions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Strychnos pungens safe to grow around pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the main toxins in Strychnos pungens?
A: The seeds contain strychnine and brucine, which are highly poisonous.
Q: Can Strychnos pungens be used medicinally?
A: Historically, its toxins were used in medicine, but it is now considered too dangerous for any practical use.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Loganiaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
