PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates mild coastal wind exposure
Watering
Water deeply when top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Thrives in mild subtropical temperatures; protect from frost below 5°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Elliptical, glossy dark green leaves with smooth margins; opposite arrangement
- Flower: Small, fragrant white flowers in axillary clusters
- Stem/Bark: Smooth grey-brown bark on young stems; fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flowering and healthy foliage
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to prevent pests and odorPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain canopy shape
- Thin overcrowded growth to improve airflow and light penetration
- Avoid heavy pruning to preserve the tree's natural rounded form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: No documented toxicity to cats per ASPCA
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental tree; high conservation priority as a critically endangered endemic
