Stinging Tree
dendrocnide moroidea
Also known as: ["Giant Stinging Tree","Makandi"]
Overview
A large shrub or small tree native to tropical rainforests of Australia and New Guinea, known for its stinging hairs that cause severe pain upon contact.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Dendrocnide |
| Botanical Name: | Dendrocnide moroidea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or large indoor pot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years, depending on growth rate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh topsoil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; can also propagate via division in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply 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 (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 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 for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves (due to stinging hairs).
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged stems, shape the 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; ensure good drainage holes.
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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
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 saturation; 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 to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in cold conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, reduces water uptake, and can lead to leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may lead to reduced vigor and flowering.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade during peak heat, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with leaves.
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
ToxicCats are also highly sensitive to the stinging hairs of Dendrocnide moroidea. The toxins can cause severe pain, irritation, and potential systemic effects if ingested or if hairs are inhaled, similar to dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Dogs
ToxicDogs are highly susceptible to the stinging hairs of Dendrocnide moroidea, which can cause severe pain and irritation upon contact. The toxins can lead to localized inflammation and systemic effects if ingested or if hairs are inhaled.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Humans
ToxicDendrocnide moroidea, commonly known as stinging tree, contains needle-like silica hairs embedded in its leaves and stems that inject toxins upon contact. The toxins cause intense pain, inflammation, and long-lasting irritation due to their neurotoxic and histamine-releasing properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dendrocnide moroidea safe to touch?
A: No, it is highly toxic and its stinging hairs can cause severe pain and allergic reactions.
Q: Where is Dendrocnide moroidea commonly found?
A: It is native to tropical rainforests in Australia and New Guinea.
Q: How should one handle this plant?
A: Avoid direct contact; use protective gear if handling is necessary.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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