Pink Pagoda
chassalia corallioides
Also known as: ["Pink Pagoda Plant"]
Overview
A tropical shrub with striking pink, pagoda-shaped inflorescences and glossy green foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Chassalia |
| Botanical Name: | Chassalia corallioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high 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: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for major pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to avoid direct sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; place near east or north-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter direct 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; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, rich in 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 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
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 over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early 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 outgrow the pot; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
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; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and increased water demand due to evaporation.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
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 particularly sensitive to the toxins in Chassalia corallioides. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects, necessitating prompt veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chassalia corallioides can lead to gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity due to the plant's alkaloid content. The toxins can cause severe discomfort and may require veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicChassalia corallioides contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress when ingested. The plant's effects are primarily due to its alkaloid content, which can disrupt normal cellular functions and lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Chassalia corallioides?
A: Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, especially in tropical climates.
Q: Is Chassalia corallioides suitable for indoor growth?
A: It is best grown outdoors in tropical or subtropical gardens due to its size and light requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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