Verrucous Dipterocarp

dipterocarpus verrucosus

Also known as: ["Verrucous-winged Dipterocarp"]

Family: Dipterocarpaceae Genus: Dipterocarpus Category: Trees

Overview

A large tropical tree species native to Southeast Asia, notable for its distinctive winged fruits and valuable timber.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Dipterocarpales
Family: Dipterocarpaceae
Genus: Dipterocarpus
Botanical Name: Dipterocarpus verrucosus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: tropical garden or greenhouse with high humidity
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Collectors & Enthusiasts
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
  • Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very high
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead or overgrown branches.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but avoid direct sunlight.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; 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
expert only

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to dappled sunlight

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; monitor for light stress.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, rich loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure bottom drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (20–30°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged cold or heat.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable warmth; protect from cold drafts.

Fertilizing

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

Fertilize during active growth; dilute to prevent burn; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (24–28°C), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant and improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; ensure good drainage.

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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; 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, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or leaf drop.

Solution: Protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth; use a space heater if necessary.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools afterward.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Dipterocarpus verrucosus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Dipterocarpus verrucosus can be caused by water stress, root damage, or pest infestations, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Dipterocarpus verrucosus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Dipterocarpus verrucosus is often due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from the seeds and fruits of Dipterocarpus verrucosus. The toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors loss of coordination
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of the seeds and fruits of Dipterocarpus verrucosus by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity. The toxic compounds affect the digestive and nervous systems.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

The seeds and fruits of Dipterocarpus verrucosus contain toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to systemic effects.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and fruits. Keep away from 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 Dipterocarpus verrucosus suitable for home gardening?

A: No, it is a large tropical tree requiring specific environmental conditions and is best suited for large-scale landscaping or conservation efforts.

Q: What are the uses of Dipterocarpus verrucosus?

A: It is valued for its timber, which is used in construction, and its ecological role in supporting biodiversity.

Q: How tall does Dipterocarpus verrucosus grow?

A: It can grow to heights of 40-60 meters in its natural habitat.

Quick Reference
Family: Dipterocarpaceae
Care: expert only
Light: partial shade to dappled sunli
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","collectors/enthusiasts"]
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