Nesogordonia micrantha

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Taxonomy

Family Malvaceae · Genus Nesogordonia

Context

nativeRegion

Eastern Madagascar, in lowland and littoral forests.

usdaZones

10b–12 (outdoors); can be grown indoors in cooler climates with ample light and humidity.

companionPlants

Dypsis lutescens, Ravenala madagascariensis, Chlorophytum barthianum

culturalUses

Limited documented use; occasionally grown as an ornamental in botanical collections. Some related species used for local wood or fiber.

Care

Care Requirements

LightPrefers full sun to partial shade. Tolerates some direct sunlight but benefits from protection during hottest hours in tropical regions.

WateringRequires moderate watering. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.

SoilThrives in well-draining, loamy soils rich in organic matter. Tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH.

FertilizerBenefits from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Minimal fertilization needed if planted in rich soil.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity, typical of subtropical to tropical environments. Not tolerant of prolonged dry air.

TemperatureOptimal growth at 20–30°C (68–86°F). Sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitEvergreen small tree or shrub with an upright to spreading form.

Mature SizeReaches 3–8 meters in height, occasionally taller in ideal conditions.

Growth RateModerate growth rate, faster in optimal tropical environments.

BloomingProduces small, inconspicuous, whitish flowers, typically in panicles, during the wet season.

DormancyNo pronounced dormancy, but growth slows in drier or cooler months.

Propagation

Methodsseed, semi-hardwood cuttings

DifficultyModerate (seeds can be challenging to germinate, cuttings have variable success)

Best SeasonEnd of dry or start of wet season for seed sowing and cutting propagation.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningLight pruning to shape or remove dead/diseased branches as needed.

RepottingYoung plants benefit from periodic repotting every 2–3 years; mature trees rarely need repotting unless grown in containers.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant, but possible susceptibility to fungal leaf spots or root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityNo reported toxicity to humans or animals.

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