PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of coastal salt spray and windy conditions
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to 5°C; avoids prolonged frost; thrives in mild temperate coastal climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Glossy elliptical to ovate leaves (10–25 cm long), dark green upper surface, pale green underside
- Flower: Small creamy-white fragrant blooms in axillary panicles
- Fruit: Cylindrical, sticky drupes that adhere to bird feathers for seed dispersal
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain consistently moist soil during growing season
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tbsp around the base of the tree every 3 months to boost soil calcium contentPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain canopy structure
- Thin crowded inner branches to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
- Trim overgrown shoots after flowering to control tree size and shape
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects reported
Humans: No documented toxic effects from ingestion or contact in humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental coastal tree; studied for its unique bird-assisted seed dispersal mechanism
