Iron Tree
androstachys johnsonii
Also known as: []
Overview
A small, slow-growing evergreen tree native to Madagascar, characterized by its hard, leathery leaves and unique, compact growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus: | Androstachys |
| Botanical Name: | Androstachys johnsonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or sheltered outdoor location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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 mix with cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years as needed; after flowering or 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; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
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 (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAndrostachys johnsonii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects on feline health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAndrostachys johnsonii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects on canine health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAndrostachys johnsonii is not known to exhibit any toxic effects in humans. The plant has no reported adverse physiological impacts when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Iron Tree suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: While it can be grown indoors, it requires bright light and ample space, making it more suitable for outdoor settings.
Q: How fast does Androstachys johnsonii grow?
A: It is a very slow-growing plant, often taking years to reach significant size.
Q: Does the Iron Tree require special care?
A: It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, with protection from strong winds and extreme temperatures.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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