Pitch Apple
clusia gracilis
Also known as: ["Autograph Tree","Rain Tree"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub or small tree known for its unique ability to seal wounds with a resinous substance, and its thick, leathery leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Genus: | Clusia |
| Botanical Name: | Clusia gracilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required
- 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, but generally every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
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 brighter light to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window with a sheer curtain. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Water thoroughly until it drains, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with organic matter occasionally.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C). Tolerates a range of 50–90°F (10–32°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth; adjust watering in extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to maintain shape and promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants. Prune to shape and control size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly.
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, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 2–3 inches. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on soil dryness and environmental conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots with bubble wrap, and avoid cold drafts. Water sparingly until conditions improve.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration due to excessive evaporation and transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity with misting or a humidifier, and water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicClusia gracilis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicClusia gracilis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or scientific evidence suggesting that ingestion of any part of this plant would cause harm to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicClusia gracilis is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological impacts upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Clusia gracilis toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Clusia gracilis?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Clusia gracilis be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light, but it prefers outdoor conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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