Water Oak
breonadia salicina
Also known as: ["River Oak","Swamp Oak"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to tropical regions, known for its tolerance to waterlogged soils and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Breonadia |
| Botanical Name: | Breonadia salicina |
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":"15–35°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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape.
- 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 morning sun with afternoon shade in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place indoors near east-facing windows or under shade cloth outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; provide dappled light in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost, maintain stable temps, avoid sudden changes.
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 water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, container, misting spray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent material; keep cuttings humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above leaf nodes, thin crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, encourage bushier form.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water lightly 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, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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 like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or drying out due to excessive heat and evaporation.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse periodically.
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-toxicBreonadia salicina is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBreonadia salicina is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBreonadia salicina is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Breonadia salicina suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it can thrive in urban environments if planted in suitable soil conditions.
Q: Does Breonadia salicina require frequent pruning?
A: Moderate pruning may be needed to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
Q: How fast does Breonadia salicina grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically gaining about 1-2 feet per year.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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