PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; highly tolerant of coastal salt spray and windy conditions
Watering
Water deeply during establishment; mature trees are drought-tolerant and require minimal supplemental watering
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; thrives in warm temperate to subtropical coastal climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, elliptical to ovate leaves with glossy dark green upper surfaces and pale golden undersides
- Flower: Small, greenish-yellow axillary cluster flowers with minimal fragrance
- Stem/Bark: Grey-brown smooth bark that develops fissures as the tree matures
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist for young trees; reduce watering for mature specimens
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at the start of growing season. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote healthy foliage growth without excessive vegetative spread
Composted eggshell powder：Crush and compost eggshells for 2–3 months; mix into topsoil around the tree base to improve soil structure and calcium levelsPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to maintain tree structure
- Thin crowded inner branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim lower branches to create a clear trunk for shade or landscape design purposes
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: Limited ASPCA data; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhea
Humans: Contains mild alkaloid compounds; ingestion causes oral irritation, and sap may trigger mild skin rashes
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shade tree for coastal landscapes; traditional medicinal uses in some African communities for treating skin conditions
