Demerara Incense

protium demerarense

Also known as: ["Incense Tree","Balsam Tree"]

Family: Burseraceae Genus: Protium Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical tree species native to South America, valued for its aromatic resin and ecological significance.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Sapindales
Family: Burseraceae
Genus: Protium
Botanical Name: Protium demerarense

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor sheltered location
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments, rarely required in humid climates
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix with organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
  • 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 morning sun in winter and dappled shade in summer.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
expert only

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun

Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter

pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (55–60°F) tolerated at night; avoid sudden fluctuations.

Avoid placing near vents; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care with seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring–summer; air layering for larger branches.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below node.
  3. Apply hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm (75–85°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or sphagnum moss.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bag, humidity dome, rooting medium.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinching, heading back, or thinning cuts depending on desired shape.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant; encourage bushier growth; improve air circulation.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune above nodes; remove crossing branches; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

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; 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; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use peat moss for acidity.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or drop; increases susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas; reduce watering.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may cease flowering or fruiting.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; 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

Yellowing leaves in Protium demerarense may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Protium demerarense can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, impacting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Protium demerarense may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Protium demerarense due to excessive moisture, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Protium demerarense is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are required for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Protium demerarense is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are required for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Protium demerarense is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are required for handling or consuming this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Protium demerarense suitable for indoor cultivation?

A: No, it is a large tropical tree requiring outdoor space.

Q: What is the primary use of Protium demerarense?

A: Its resin is used for incense and traditional medicine.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Burseraceae
Care: expert only
Light: partial shade to full sun with
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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