African Trumpet Tree
hexalobus monopetalus
Also known as: ["African Trumpet Tree","Monopetalous Hexalobus"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to Africa, known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Magnoliales |
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Genus: | Hexalobus |
| Botanical Name: | Hexalobus monopetalus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor environments, rarely required outdoors
- 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: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- 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 direct morning sun in winter if needed.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; avoid intense afternoon sun; place in a spot with filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
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 hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pot, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushiness; prune to maintain shape and promote airflow.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
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 deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
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-toxicHexalobus monopetalus is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant has not been associated with any harmful effects when ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicHexalobus monopetalus is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicHexalobus monopetalus is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse effects through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the common name of Hexalobus monopetalus?
A: It is commonly known as the African Trumpet Tree.
Q: Does Hexalobus monopetalus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Hexalobus monopetalus toxic to pets?
A: The toxicity to pets is currently unknown.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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