Castanospermum australe
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusCastanospermum
Zone10
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Castanospermum australe, commonly known as the Black Bean or Moreton Bay Chestnut, is a tree native to the east coast of Australia and the Pacific islands. It thrives in wet tropical climates and can grow up to 40 meters tall in its natural habitat. The tree produces large, glossy leaves and bright red and yellow flowers, followed by large, bean-like seeds. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Black Bean
Castanocarpus Australis
Castanospermum australe var. brevivexillum
Castanospermum brevivexillum
Castanospermum cunninghamii
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Castanospermum australe prefers bright, indirect light and thrives in warm, humid conditions. It should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant enjoys moderate temperatures and high humidity, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical regions. Regular misting can help maintain humidity levels.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mix of loam and organic matter works well. Ensure the soil is rich in nutrients to support its growth. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support its growth. Reduce feeding during the dormant period if the plant experiences one.Repotting
Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Propagation is typically done through seeds. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. Germination can take several weeks. Ensure the seeds are kept in a warm, humid environment to encourage growth.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Prune during the growing season by cutting back any dead or overgrown branches. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.Toxicity
Castanospermum australe is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The seeds contain toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.Additional
The plant can be grown indoors in a large pot, provided it receives adequate light and humidity. Regular misting and a humidifier can help maintain the necessary humidity levels. It is also important to monitor for pests such as spider mites and aphids, which can affect the plant's health.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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