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dioclea malacocarpa
Also known as: []
Overview
A leguminous plant species native to tropical regions, characterized by its woody stems and pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Dioclea |
| Botanical Name: | Dioclea malacocarpa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments
- 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, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal of specific stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to stronger light, protect from direct midday sun, place near east or west-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild seasonal fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (optional), plant 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
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, clean up debris, monitor for new growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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, ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, slowed growth, or bud drop in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid overwatering, and use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; soil dries out faster, increasing water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves, flush 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-toxicDioclea malacocarpa is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects on feline health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDioclea malacocarpa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects on canine health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDioclea malacocarpa is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It has no reported adverse physiological impacts when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dioclea malacocarpa toxic to pets?
A: Unknown, no specific studies have been conducted.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for Dioclea malacocarpa?
A: It thrives in tropical climates with well-drained soil and partial shade.
Q: Does Dioclea malacocarpa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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