Cordia sebestena
TAXONOMY
FamilyBoraginaceae
GenusCordia
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Cordia sebestena, commonly known as Geiger Tree or Scarlet Cordia, is a flowering plant native to the Caribbean and parts of Central America. It is known for its bright orange-red flowers and is often used as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant does not have a dormancy period and can bloom throughout the year in suitable climates.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Lithocardium Laeve
Cordia juglandifolia
Cordia laevis
Cordia sebestena var. rubra
Orange cordia
Sebestena repanda
Sebesten sebestena
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cordia sebestena thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It should be watered when the soil is almost completely dry, and it benefits from moderate humidity levels. The plant is relatively easy to care for but does require regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage flowering.Soil
Cordia sebestena prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soil that is not too heavy or waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth and flowering. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the active growing period.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Cordia sebestena when grown outdoors. However, if grown in a container, repotting every 2-3 years is recommended to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Repot in the spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Cordia sebestena can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seed propagation is slow, so cuttings are often preferred. Take semi-hardwood cuttings in the spring or early summer and root them in a well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and encourage flowering. Prune after the flowering period to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Regular pruning helps to promote a bushier growth habit.Toxicity
Cordia sebestena is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always a good practice to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any accidental ingestion.Additional
Cordia sebestena is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it a good choice for xeriscaping. It is also salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal gardens. Regular monitoring for pests such as aphids and scale insects is recommended.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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