PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade but may reduce bloom production
Watering
Deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth; allow top 15–20 cm of soil to dry between sessions
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical climates; sensitive to frost and temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound, 20–40 cm long; oval, glossy green leaflets arranged in pairs
- Flower: Fragrant pale pink to rose-pink pea-shaped blooms in drooping, 30–60 cm long racemes
- Fruit: Long cylindrical brown pods, 30–60 cm long, containing toxic, hard seeds
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry periods; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Apply balanced organic fertilizer once at the start of growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth over flowering
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to promote airflow and shape the canopy
- Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve light penetration for better flowering
- Trim suckers around the base to reduce competition for nutrients and maintain tree form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion of seeds or plant material may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
Humans: Ingestion of seeds may cause gastrointestinal distress, nausea, and vomiting
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes tropical summer beauty in Central American folk gardening traditions
Usage: Ornamental shade tree for large gardens and public spaces; seeds are toxic and not suitable for consumption
