Birdlime Tree (Pisonia grandis)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of coastal salt spray and direct sunlight in tropical climates

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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; tolerate short periods of drought but avoid prolonged waterlogging

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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 15°C

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Leaf: Large, glossy elliptical leaves up to 30 cm long; dark green upper surface, pale green underside
Flower: Small, creamy-white clustered flowers with nocturnal fragrance
Fruit: Elongated, sticky seed pods that adhere to bird feathers for dispersal

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Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture without overwatering

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy to prevent nutrient buildup in soil

Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water, and dilute 1:20 before applying as a root drench to avoid nutrient burn

Pruning

Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in early spring to improve canopy airflow
Trim overgrown limbs to maintain a manageable canopy shape and reduce weight on weak trunk sections
Remove base suckers to direct growth to the main trunk and prevent overcrowding

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Not specifically listed, but related species may cause mild oral irritation and drooling if ingested

Humans: Ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and stomach pain

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental coastal landscape tree; historically used to produce birdlime from sticky seed secretions for trapping birds