Chica
fridericia chica
Also known as: ["Brazilian redwood","Chica tree"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to South America, known for its reddish-brown bark and potential medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Fridericia |
| Botanical Name: | Fridericia chica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required in humid environments
- 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: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to direct morning sun in cooler months if needed.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense afternoon sun; place in a spot with filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
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; promotes fresh soil and growth.
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 deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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 for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing leaves; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or drop; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; 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); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions if they consume parts of Fridericia chica. The toxicity is generally low, but monitoring is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Fridericia chica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and potential allergic reactions. The effects are typically not life-threatening but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFridericia chica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the traditional uses of Fridericia chica?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Q: Is Fridericia chica suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Does Fridericia chica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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