Guianan Milkwood
macoubea guianensis
Also known as: ["Guianan Milkwood Tree"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to South America, known for its milky sap and hard wood.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Macoubea |
| Botanical Name: | Macoubea guianensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- 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: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in early spring.
- 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; adjust for seasonal changes to avoid leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; avoid sudden exposure to intense sun; place in filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden cold snaps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize in spring/summer only; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape as desired, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly.
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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly 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 indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
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
ToxicMacoubea guianensis is toxic to cats, with the seeds and berries being the most hazardous parts. The plant's toxic compounds can lead to severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects in felines, which may require immediate veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and berries of Macoubea guianensis are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity. The plant's effects can be particularly severe in smaller dogs due to their lower body weight.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicMacoubea guianensis contains toxic compounds, primarily in its seeds and berries, which can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxicity is attributed to the presence of saponins and other bioactive compounds that disrupt cellular functions and may lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Macoubea guianensis toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is currently unknown.
Q: What are the common uses of Macoubea guianensis?
A: It is primarily valued for its hard wood and ecological role in supporting wildlife.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Macoubea guianensis?
A: It requires moderate care, suitable for gardeners with some experience.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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