unknown
guatteria punctata
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Annonaceae, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Magnoliales |
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Genus: | Guatteria |
| Botanical Name: | Guatteria punctata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or large container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: unknown
- Toughness Level: unknown
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade outdoors; indoors, use sheer curtains to diffuse direct sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
unknownmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled sunlight
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix with added sand.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible to speed up rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune selectively, remove debris, monitor for regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any damaged roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; signs include roots growing out of drainage holes or slow growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, 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 moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry; 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 compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, reduces water uptake, and can lead to root damage or fungal infections in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, avoid overwatering, and use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and increased water loss, potentially leading to dehydration and stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before applying, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Guatteria punctata. Ingestion can result in significant gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic effects, requiring prompt medical intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Guatteria punctata can lead to moderate to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of bioactive compounds. The effects can be more pronounced in smaller breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGuatteria punctata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Guatteria punctata commonly cultivated?
A: No, it is not commonly cultivated and is primarily found in its native tropical habitats.
Q: Does Guatteria punctata have any known medicinal uses?
A: Information on medicinal uses is limited and not well-documented.
Q: How does Guatteria punctata contribute to the ecosystem?
A: It likely supports local wildlife through its flowers and fruits, attracting pollinators and frugivores.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Care: | unknown |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled sunli |
| 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
