Corkwood Tree, Davidson's Plum
davidsonia pruriens
Also known as: ["Corkwood Tree","Davidson's Plum"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized tree native to rainforests of eastern Australia, known for its distinctive plum-like fruit and lightweight wood.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Cunoniaceae |
| Genus: | Davidsonia |
| Botanical Name: | Davidsonia pruriens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or large container in a humid, sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled sunlight
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, rich organic soil with high humus content
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures in winter (50–60°F or 10–15°C) may be tolerated.
Protect from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
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 (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; additional months for establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown branches to maintain shape and encourage new growth; prune after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
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; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply 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 compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; wilting in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; 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 (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest the fruits or seeds of Davidsonia pruriens. The toxic compounds can lead to discomfort but are not usually life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume the fruits or seeds of Davidsonia pruriens. The irritant compounds can cause discomfort but are not typically severe enough to cause serious health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe fruits and seeds of Davidsonia pruriens contain irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized discomfort and is not considered life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Davidsonia pruriens suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation in a rainforest-like environment.
Q: What are the uses of Davidsonia pruriens?
A: The fruit is edible and used in jams, sauces, and desserts, while the lightweight wood is sometimes used for crafts.
Q: How does Davidsonia pruriens grow?
A: It thrives in moist, well-drained soil with partial to full shade, requiring protection from strong winds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cunoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled sunli |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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