Purple Cunonia (Cunonia purpurea)

Purple Cunonia

Cunonia purpurea

Its bronze-purple new growth glows like twilight embers. Evergreen ornamental tree; common name: Purple Cunonia.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, indirect light in indoor container settings
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Prefers mild, temperate to subtropical temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, compound leaves with 3–5 leaflets; new growth is deep purple, maturing to dark green
  • Flower: Clusters of small, creamy-white fragrant blooms
  • Stem: Slender, brown stems with smooth bark when young, becoming slightly fissured with age
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

Fertilization

Feed with diluted balanced fertilizer every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late autumn to support dormancy

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the tree and gently work into topsoil
Pruning
  • Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to encourage healthy new growth
  • Trim overcrowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
  • Shape young trees to maintain desired form; avoid heavy pruning of mature specimens
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA has no documented toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic compounds for human consumption or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental tree for subtropical gardens and large indoor container displays