Alchornea cordifolia
TAXONOMY
FamilyEuphorbiaceae
GenusAlchornea
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Alchornea cordifolia, commonly known as the Christmas bush or the African Christmas bush, is a shrub or small tree native to tropical Africa. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is known for its heart-shaped leaves. This plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is often found in riverine forests and swampy areas.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Christmas Bush
Alchornea cordata
Cacoucia cordifolia
Schousboea cordifolia
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightMedium (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Alchornea cordifolia requires moderate light conditions and thrives in warm, humid environments. It prefers consistently wet soil and should be watered regularly to maintain moisture. The plant does well in moderate temperatures and high humidity, making it ideal for tropical climates.Soil
This plant prefers loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-draining yet capable of retaining moisture to keep the roots consistently wet. Adding compost or other organic material can help improve soil quality.Fertilizer
Alchornea cordifolia benefits from a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its growth and development. Regular feeding every few weeks is recommended.Repotting
Repotting is necessary when the plant outgrows its current container. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil. Repotting is best done during the growing season to minimize stress on the plant.Propagation
Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. For cuttings, take a healthy stem and plant it in moist soil. Keep the soil consistently wet and provide moderate light until the cutting establishes roots.Pruning
Pruning is required to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Remove dead or damaged branches and trim back overgrown areas to encourage new growth. Pruning is best done during the growing season.Toxicity
Alchornea cordifolia is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is advisable to keep it out of reach of small children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.Additional
Alchornea cordifolia is valued for its medicinal properties in traditional African medicine. The leaves and bark are used to treat various ailments, including skin conditions and respiratory issues. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any plant for medicinal purposes.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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