PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; highly tolerant of coastal salt spray and intense sunlight
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once fully established
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical temperatures; avoid frost and prolonged exposure below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, glossy green, 8–15 cm long, with serrated margins
- Flower: Cup-shaped, 8–10 cm wide; opens yellow in morning, deepens to orange then red by evening before wilting
- Stem: Gray-brown bark, with flexible, spreading branches adapted to coastal winds
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during hot, dry spells
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks. Cease fertilization in late autumn to support dormancy preparation
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Prune in late winter to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches and maintain desired shape
- Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Trim back excessive growth to control size, especially for container-grown specimens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains cyanogenic glycosides that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite
Humans: Ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and abdominal pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used in Pacific island cultures for canoe building and traditional medicinal remedies
Usage: Coastal erosion control, ornamental landscaping, and traditional fiber production from bark
