PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of coastal salt spray and urban pollution
Watering
Water deeply for young trees; established specimens are drought-tolerant, avoid prolonged waterlogging
Temperature
Tolerates light frost (down to 5°C); thrives in warm temperate to subtropical conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnate compound leaves with 6–12 glossy, elliptical leaflets; dark green above, paler beneath
- Flower: Small, creamy-yellow, fragrant clusters in axillary panicles
- Fruit: Brown, woody capsules splitting to reveal bright red arils surrounding seeds
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees weekly to establish root systems; established trees need occasional deep watering in dry spells
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced slow-release fertilizer once monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote compact, healthy growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush thoroughly dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of young trees, gently work into topsoil to improve soil structure and calcium levelsPruning
- Thin overcrowded inner branches in late winter to enhance air circulation and light penetration
- Trim lower lateral branches to raise the canopy height for pedestrian or vehicle clearance
- Remove dead, diseased, or broken branches as needed throughout the year
- Avoid heavy pruning; maintain the tree’s natural rounded form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shade tree, coastal windbreak, urban street planting
