Pterospermum suberifolium

Cork-leaved Bayur

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Taxonomy

Family Malvaceae · Genus Pterospermum

Common Names

Cork-leaved BayurWhite SandalwoodVelvet-Leaved Bayur

Context

nativeRegion

Native to India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia.

usdaZones

Best suited for USDA zones 10-12.

companionPlants

Ficus species, Albizia lebbeck, Sacred fig (Ficus religiosa)

culturalUses

Bark, leaves, and flowers have uses in traditional medicine for treating ulcers and other ailments; wood is sometimes used for local construction; sacred tree in some South Asian cultures.

Care

Care Requirements

LightPrefers full sun to partial shade.

WateringNeeds moderate watering, with well-drained soil; avoid prolonged drought.

SoilThrives in sandy loam or clay loam soils with good drainage.

FertilizerLight organic compost annually at the base; not nutrient demanding.

HumidityPrefers humid to sub-humid conditions.

TemperatureThrives in tropical to subtropical temperatures; sensitive to frost.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitMedium to large deciduous tree, with a dense, spreading canopy.

Mature SizeTypically 10-20 meters in height.

Growth RateModerate growth rate.

BloomingProduces fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late spring to summer.

DormancyDeciduous with leaf fall in the dry/cool season.

Propagation

MethodsSeeds, Stem cuttings

DifficultyModerate; seeds should be sown fresh.

Best SeasonPropagate at the start of the rainy season for highest success.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningMinimal; remove dead or crossing branches as needed.

RepottingNot typically required unless grown in large containers when young.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant; watch for leaf spot or root rot in poor drainage.

ToxicityNot known to be toxic; parts of the plant are used medicinally.

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