Harad, Haritaki, Chebulic Myrobalan
terminalia chebula
Also known as: ["Harad","Haritaki","Chebulic Myrobalan","Black Myrobalan"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to South and Southeast Asia, Terminalia chebula is renowned for its medicinal properties and use in Ayurvedic medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Genus: | Terminalia |
| Botanical Name: | Terminalia chebula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense midday sun; adjust light exposure based on seasonal changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
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 organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot temperatures (65–95°F or 18–35°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in tropical conditions.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize lightly during active growth; stop in dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F or 24–29°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for recovery.
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, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or chlorosis in extreme cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and water demand increases in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicTerminalia chebula is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion of large amounts of the fruit or seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's tannins and laxative properties can cause irritation in the digestive system of cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicTerminalia chebula is not highly toxic to dogs, but ingestion of large amounts of the fruit or seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its laxative effects. The tannins present in the plant can potentially cause irritation in the digestive tract of dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicTerminalia chebula, commonly known as Harad or Haritaki, is generally considered safe for human consumption in traditional medicinal doses. However, excessive intake may lead to mild gastrointestinal disturbances due to its laxative properties. The fruit and seeds contain tannins and other bioactive compounds that can cause irritation in sensitive individuals or when consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the traditional uses of Terminalia chebula?
A: It is used in Ayurvedic medicine for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and as a rejuvenating tonic.
Q: How tall does Terminalia chebula grow?
A: It can reach heights of 15–30 meters in its natural habitat.
Q: Does Terminalia chebula require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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