Copperpod

Copperpod Care

Peltophorum Pterocarpum

What is the plant

pterocarpum is a fast-growing species with a deep root system and a dense spreading crown. It is often planted as a shade tree in plantations in East Asia. Also, it has symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria that form nodules in the root and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Flowering commence at four years. It grows up to 24m in height and up to 100cm in trunk diameter. The leaves are bipinnate and each leaf is comprised of about 20-40 oval leaflets. The flowers are yellow. There is no known edible part of this plant but it is used in traditional medicine. In particular, the bark is used as treatment for sprains, bruises, swelling, eye problems, body sore, and intestinal disorders. Leaflets and buds are found to have antifungal properties while an alcoholic extract from the flowers has anti inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Moreover, the bark produces a yellowish brown dye which is used in the textile industry particularly for dyeing batik products and fishing nets. The wood is used as fuel and as material for constructions, boat building, cabinet making, etc. Other common names include poinciana, yellow, yellow flamboyant, and yellow flame. Copperpod or Peltophorum.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

min 10°C

Hardiness zone

10 - 12

Difficulty

Medium

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
This tree is considered drought-tolerant once established, but does best with a regular watering schedule that allows a bit of time for the soil to dry out between waterings.
Pruning
Trimming isn't necessary other than to prune branch ends after flowering is done in order to promote more bushy growth. Also you can remove any too-low branches as the plant matures. The seed pods will fall off on their own, and aren't a nuisance.
Fertilizer
To help establish your new Yellow Flame Tree, fertilize sparingly ten inches away from the base, tri-annually with a slow time released product. Unfertilized they will tend to grow at a slower pace. Note: The heavy salts in cheaper fertilizers will damage the roots and possibly kill the plant. Its best to use a brand you know and trust.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Best outdoors if grown in zone 10a-11, find your zone here. This tree requires 80-100% sunlight. Depending on your location full sun is often best. In the northern end of their grow zone Yellow Flame Trees should be brought indoors or protected during the winter months.
Soil
Yellow Flame Trees enjoy a well drained, general potting mix easily found at your local box store. Remember try to stay away from arid or wet, mucky soils.
Container
All tropical tree varieties grow well in containers, indoors or on the patio. Smaller varieties grow best in 12″ to 16″ diameter pots while larger varieties need enough room for growth, generally a 16″ to 30″ diameter, 14 ” deep container will suffice. Remember the looser the roots, the taller and healthier your tree will be. When the tree becomes root bound its growth will slow, at that point it is time for a larger pot.