Bourgeois's Phyllanthus
phyllanthus bourgeoisii
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Phyllanthaceae, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus: | Phyllanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Phyllanthus bourgeoisii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or sheltered outdoor location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 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; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; avoid intense afternoon sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some 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
Average room temperature (65–75°F); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes drafts.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- 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 root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth and encourage bushier form; maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
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; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
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-toxicPhyllanthus bourgeoisii is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented reports of toxicity in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPhyllanthus bourgeoisii is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPhyllanthus bourgeoisii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse effects through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phyllanthus bourgeoisii toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Phyllanthus bourgeoisii?
A: It requires moderate care, making it suitable for enthusiasts rather than beginners.
Q: Does Phyllanthus bourgeoisii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Phyllanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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