unknown
caraipa punctulata
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Calophyllaceae, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Caraipa |
| Botanical Name: | Caraipa punctulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or large indoor container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: unknown
- Toughness Level: unknown
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to dappled sunlight if direct light causes leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from intense midday sun; place in a location with filtered light for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
unknownmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter direct sunlight; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, acidic, organic-rich soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures without extreme fluctuations.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden cold snaps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in 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 (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended 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, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth 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 fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
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 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 saturating; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and water retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; soil dries out quickly, increasing water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
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-toxicCaraipa punctulata is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant has not been reported to cause any harmful physiological effects in felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCaraipa punctulata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines following ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCaraipa punctulata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant has not been documented to cause any adverse physiological impacts when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Caraipa punctulata commonly cultivated?
A: No, it is not commonly cultivated due to its limited distribution and specialized habitat requirements.
Q: What is the native range of Caraipa punctulata?
A: It is native to tropical regions, though specific native ranges are not well-documented.
Q: Does Caraipa punctulata have any known medicinal uses?
A: There is limited information available regarding its medicinal uses.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Care: | unknown |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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