PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full direct sun; tolerates coastal salt spray and wind exposure
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water young trees regularly to develop deep root systems
Temperature
Thrives in tropical to subtropical climates; cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Glossy elliptical leaves 5–10 cm long, alternate arrangement; yellow-green fall foliage
- Flower: Small greenish-yellow clustered axillary spikes, unremarkable in appearance
- Fruit: Apple-like greenish-yellow berries 4–5 cm in diameter, highly toxic
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray bark; exudes thick milky sap when damaged or pruned
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees weekly; mature trees need only occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Diluted balanced slow-release feed once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive vulnerable growth
Composted banana peel tea：Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid nutrient burn and odorPruning
- Wear heavy protective gloves, goggles, and long clothing to avoid sap contact during all pruning
- Prune only dead or damaged branches in late winter to minimize sap flow exposure
- Remove fallen fruit immediately to prevent accidental ingestion by humans or pets
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contact or ingestion causes severe oral/skin irritation, organ damage, potential fatality
Humans: All plant parts contain phorbol and irritant compounds; sap causes blistering on contact, ingestion can be fatal
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Considered one of the world's most toxic trees; historically used by indigenous peoples to poison enemy water supplies
Usage: N/A (too toxic for practical horticultural or commercial use)
