Large-flowered Dysoxylum

dysoxylum macranthum

Also known as: ["Large-flowered Mahogany"]

Family: Meliaceae Genus: Dysoxylum Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical tree species native to Southeast Asia, known for its large, fragrant flowers and mahogany-like wood.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Sapindales
Family: Meliaceae
Genus: Dysoxylum
Botanical Name: Dysoxylum macranthum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or sheltered outdoor location
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in late winter or 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; adjust to partial shade during intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to filtered light

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

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 slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, rich loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).

Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during winter.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with at least two nodes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Apply hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.

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, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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 compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if in direct sun.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; 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); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Dysoxylum macranthum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Dysoxylum macranthum can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Dysoxylum macranthum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Dysoxylum macranthum is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from the seeds and fruit of Dysoxylum macranthum. The toxic compounds can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruit
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of the seeds or fruit of Dysoxylum macranthum can be toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal and systemic distress. The toxic compounds affect the digestive and nervous systems.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruit
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant away from dogs. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

The seeds and fruit of Dysoxylum macranthum contain toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea dizziness weakness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruit
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant, especially seeds and fruit. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Dysoxylum macranthum suitable for indoor cultivation?

A: No, it is a large tropical tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.

Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?

A: There is limited documented evidence of medicinal use, though it belongs to the Meliaceae family, which includes some species with pharmacological properties.

Q: How fast does Dysoxylum macranthum grow?

A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, especially in tropical conditions with adequate sunlight and water.

Quick Reference
Family: Meliaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to filtered ligh
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Mangrove Apple
View
Cuban Mahogany
View
Natal Mahogany
View
African Mahogany
View