Bashful Tree, Suicide Tree, Pong Pong
cerbera odollam
Also known as: ["Bashful Tree","Suicide Tree","Pong Pong"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to coastal regions of India and parts of Southeast Asia, known for its highly toxic seeds and fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Cerbera |
| Botanical Name: | Cerbera odollam |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor garden in sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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 include some organic matter for fertility.
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 the plant if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter to avoid nutrient buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Monitor for roots.
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 use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity around cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply 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, or stunted growth due to cold stress; wilting or scorching due to heat stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Highly ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Cerbera odollam, which can cause severe cardiac toxicity and systemic effects. Even small amounts can be lethal due to their small body size and metabolic sensitivity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Highly ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Cerbera odollam are equally dangerous to dogs, causing severe cardiac dysfunction and potentially fatal outcomes. The toxin disrupts electrolyte balance and cardiac muscle function, leading to life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Highly ToxicCerbera odollam, commonly known as the 'suicide tree,' contains potent cardiac glycosides, primarily cerberin, which disrupts normal heart function by inhibiting the Na+/K+-ATPase enzyme. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, and death. The effects are dose-dependent and can be fatal even in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cerbera odollam safe to grow around pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the uses of Cerbera odollam?
A: It is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its rarity and unique appearance.
Q: How should Cerbera odollam be handled?
A: Extreme caution is advised due to its highly toxic nature; gloves should be worn when handling.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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