PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; dense shade may reduce flowering output
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to light frost (-2°C); prefers temperate to subtropical climates; protect from extreme cold snaps
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, elliptical to oblong leaves; glossy dark green above, paler beneath; new growth has reddish tints
- Flower: Dense clusters of creamy-white to pale yellow tubular flowers with a mild sweet fragrance
- Stem/Bark: Smooth light brown bark that becomes fissured with age; weeping branches droop gently
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth that may reduce flowering
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 4–6 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest infestations and odorPruning
- Thin overcrowded branches in late winter to improve airflow and light penetration
- Remove dead or damaged wood annually to maintain tree health and shape
- Trim weeping branches lightly to control canopy size as needed; avoid heavy pruning of mature trees
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shade tree for gardens and street planting; nectar source for bees and butterflies
