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planchonella latihila

Also known as: []

Family: Sapotaceae Genus: Planchonella Category: Trees

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the family Sapotaceae, native to tropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ericales
Family: Sapotaceae
Genus: Planchonella
Botanical Name: Planchonella latihila

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or sheltered outdoor location
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: unknown
  • Toughness Level: unknown
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
  • 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 lower light in winter to prevent scorching.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from direct sun to avoid leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
unknown

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to filtered light

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

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

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

Soil

well-draining, organic-rich potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).

Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage before planting.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoid extremes.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; air layering for larger specimens.

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 the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), 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

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems; pinch back tips for bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant for better light exposure; encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

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; use fresh soil to replenish nutrients.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil mix; 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

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 organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration with bark chips.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf yellowing, wilting, or drop; stunted growth; bud drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

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

Yellow leaves in Planchonella latihila may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Planchonella latihila can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death.

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

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

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal and neurological effects if they ingest parts of Planchonella latihila. The toxins can cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Planchonella latihila seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and, in some cases, mild neurological symptoms. The toxins are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant away from dogs. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Planchonella latihila contains mild toxins that can cause gastrointestinal distress and mild neurological effects upon ingestion. The toxins primarily affect the digestive system and, in rare cases, may cause mild central nervous system disturbances.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and bark. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Planchonella latihila commonly cultivated?

A: No, it is not commonly cultivated and is primarily of botanical interest.

Q: What are the typical growing conditions for Planchonella latihila?

A: It thrives in tropical climates with high humidity and well-drained soil.

Q: Does Planchonella latihila have any known uses?

A: There are no widely documented uses for this species.

Quick Reference
Family: Sapotaceae
Care: unknown
Light: partial shade to filtered ligh
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers"]
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