Indian almond tree
terminalia catappa
Also known as: ["Beefwood","Butterfly tree","Sea almond"]
Overview
A large tropical tree known for its distinctive leaf shape and seasonal leaf drop, producing edible nuts similar to almonds.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Genus: | Terminalia |
| Botanical Name: | Terminalia catappa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a potted indoor plant in bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- 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; can include organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove deadwood and maintain 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; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent leaf burn; protect from direct midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer)
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- 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 (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
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 and heading back to encourage branching; avoid excessive cutting of main stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining a balanced canopy.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-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 moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; slowed growth in cold; scorching or browning in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures remain below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; insulate roots with mulch.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse periodically.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThe seeds of Terminalia catappa are toxic to cats, containing cyanogenic glycosides that can cause cyanide poisoning. This can severely impair oxygen transport and lead to critical physiological dysfunction.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds of Terminalia catappa are toxic to dogs due to their cyanogenic glycoside content. Ingestion can lead to cyanide poisoning, which affects oxygen transport in the blood and can cause severe physiological distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicTerminalia catappa, commonly known as the Indian almond tree, has leaves and seeds that contain cyanogenic glycosides. In large quantities, these compounds can release cyanide, leading to mild to moderate toxicity. The physiological impact includes disruption of cellular respiration and potential metabolic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the nuts produced by Terminalia catappa edible?
A: Yes, the nuts are edible and resemble almonds in taste.
Q: Does Terminalia catappa require full sun?
A: It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Why do the leaves of Terminalia catappa turn yellow and fall off?
A: This is a natural seasonal process, as the tree sheds old leaves before new growth emerges.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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