PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of intense tropical sunlight and coastal salt spray
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; highly drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical climates; sensitive to frost below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound leaves with 7–11 oval, glossy green leaflets; turn yellow before deciduous drop.
- Bark: Thin, papery red-brown bark that peels in sheets to reveal pale, smooth underbark.
- Flower: Small, greenish-white fragrant blooms clustered in axillary panicles.
- Fruit: Small red drupes containing a single seed; dispersed by birds.
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during prolonged dry spells; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Light, balanced feed once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can disrupt natural growth patterns
Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to maintain canopy structure
- Trim lower branches to create a clear trunk for formal landscape use
- Avoid heavy pruning, as the tree recovers slowly from severe cuts
- Remove basal suckers to prevent overcrowding and redirect growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental landscaping; resin used in traditional Caribbean medicine for skin conditions
