Swamp Mahogany
lophostemon confertus
Also known as: ["Brush Box","White Gum"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to eastern Australia, known for its dense foliage and adaptability to wet soils.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Lophostemon |
| Botanical Name: | Lophostemon confertus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a spacious area with room for growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years, depending on growth rate and desired shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, though some afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers stable warmth.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer evenly around the root zone; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, 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), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or a standard cactus/succulent mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; check for root development after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and shaping cuts to maintain form and health.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood; best done after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early 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 necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
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, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection if outdoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; soil dries out quickly; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use correct dilution, apply evenly, avoid contact with stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLophostemon confertus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic compounds that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLophostemon confertus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic substances in the plant that would pose a risk to canine health if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLophostemon confertus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lophostemon confertus suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is adaptable to urban environments and can tolerate compacted soils.
Q: Does this tree require regular pruning?
A: Pruning is not typically necessary unless shaping or removing deadwood is required.
Q: Does it produce any edible parts?
A: No, the tree is not known for producing edible fruits or parts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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