Smooth Cupania (Cupania glabra)

Smooth Cupania

Cupania glabra

Its glossy evergreen foliage adds year-round structure to tropical landscapes. Evergreen tree; common name: Smooth Cupania.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full to partial sun; tolerates dappled shade in hot tropical climates
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Watering Water deeply and regularly in dry periods; avoid waterlogging
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; cannot tolerate frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnately compound, glossy dark green leaflets with entire margins
  • Flower: Small, creamy-white clustered panicles with subtle fragrance
  • Stem/Bark: Smooth, light brown to grayish bark on young trees; furrowed with age
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture; mulch to retain water

Fertilization

Apply balanced organic fertilizer once. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent leaf burn; use slow-release organic feeds for steady nutrient uptake

Composted banana peel tea:Steep 2–3 fully composted banana peels in 5L water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient buildup
Pruning
  • Remove dead or damaged branches in early spring to maintain canopy shape
  • Thin crowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
  • Avoid heavy pruning; only trim to control size or remove diseased growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: No documented toxicity to cats per ASPCA

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental shade tree; wood used for small crafts in native regions