Intellect Seed, Malkanguni
celastrus paniculatus
Also known as: ["Intellect Seed","Malkanguni","Jyotishmati"]
Overview
A deciduous climbing shrub native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, known for its medicinal seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Celastales |
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Genus: | Celastrus |
| Botanical Name: | Celastrus paniculatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a partially shaded garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can tolerate slightly loamy soil outdoors.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize in spring/summer; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
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 deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.
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 for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; chlorosis in overly warm conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Celastrus paniculatus. The toxic effects are generally not severe but warrant monitoring.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Celastrus paniculatus seeds and berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxicity is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCelastrus paniculatus, commonly known as the intellect plant, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms if ingested. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the traditional uses of Celastrus paniculatus?
A: The seeds are used in traditional medicine for their cognitive-enhancing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Q: How should Celastrus paniculatus be propagated?
A: It is typically propagated by seeds or stem cuttings in well-drained soil with partial shade.
Q: Does Celastrus paniculatus require pruning?
A: Pruning is recommended to control growth and promote better fruit production.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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