Sterculia foetida
TAXONOMY
FamilyMalvaceae
GenusSterculia
Zone10
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Sterculia foetida, commonly known as the Wild Almond or Java Olive, is a tree native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. It belongs to the Malvaceae family and the Sterculia genus. The tree is known for its foul-smelling flowers, which give it the name 'foetida'. It thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and can grow up to 35 meters tall. The tree has a dormancy period during the dry season.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Indian-Almond
Java-Olive
Wild Almond
Clompanus foetida
Hazel sterculia
Sterculia mexicana var. guianensis
Sterculia polyphylla
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Sterculia foetida requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Water the tree sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Ensure the tree is planted outdoors in a location that receives ample sunlight.Soil
The tree prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soil that is not waterlogged. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the tree during the growing season to support its growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the tree.Repotting
Repot young trees every 2-3 years to accommodate their growing root system. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil. Repot during the early growing season for best results.Propagation
Propagate Sterculia foetida through seeds or cuttings. Sow seeds in well-draining soil and keep them in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings can be taken during the growing season and rooted in a suitable medium.Pruning
Prune the tree to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape it as desired. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to minimize stress on the tree.Toxicity
Sterculia foetida is toxic to pets and humans. The seeds contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested. Handle the tree with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Sterculia foetida is known for its unique, foul-smelling flowers, which attract pollinators. The tree is also valued for its timber and seeds, which are used in traditional medicine. Ensure the tree has enough space to grow, as it can become quite large.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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