Pandanus Apple
phaleria macrocarpa
Also known as: ["Pandanus Apple","Mahkota Dewa"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub or small tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its large, fleshy fruits and traditional medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus: | Phaleria |
| Botanical Name: | Phaleria macrocarpa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or sheltered outdoor spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to stronger light, protect from direct midday sun, place near east or west-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid placing near vents or windows with extreme temperature shifts; maintain stable room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust based on plant growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use stems with visible nodes; maintain high humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, cutting just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown branches to encourage bushier growth and better air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/damaged parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, use fresh soil mix, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture penetration, 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or drop, stunted growth, bud drop, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhaleria macrocarpa is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with the plant or its fruit when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicPhaleria macrocarpa is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with the plant or its fruit when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Slightly ToxicPhaleria macrocarpa, also known as the 'Senduduk Besar' or 'Pandora's Box,' contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in excessive amounts. The fruit is generally considered safe for consumption in moderation but may lead to adverse effects if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phaleria macrocarpa edible?
A: The fruit is used in traditional medicine and sometimes consumed, but its edibility is not widely documented.
Q: How often should I water Phaleria macrocarpa?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Phaleria macrocarpa require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade with bright, ind |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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