clusia (Clusia orthoneura) plant — close-up photo
Moderate to grow

clusia

Clusia orthoneura

Overview

Clusia (Clusia orthoneura) is a remarkable plant species native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. It has become increasingly popular in tropical landscaping due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive foliage. Its glossy, thick, leathery leaves have small, star-shaped yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. Clusia's spectacular ability to tolerate drought conditions, flood, heavy winds, and even occasional frost makes it an ideal choice for many climates. In addition, it has a remarkable tolerance for salty soils, and its roots are able to even extract nutrients from the shallow and partially submerged soil along the shores of beaches. It is a beautiful, easy-to-care-for plant that makes a great addition to any garden!

Care Guide

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Watering

Watering for Clusia (Clusia orthoneura) should be done every 7 to 10 days. As a tropical species, Clusia can tolerate and benefit from regular watering over the warmer months, preferably early in the morning or in the late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. However, it is important that the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings. To do this, check the soil with your fingers if it feels barely damp, then it is time to water.

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Light

Clusia (Clusia orthoneura) thrive in full sun to part shade. They can tolerate part to full shade during the hottest portions of the day, but they will bloom less in direct shade or in a heavily shaded area. Morning sun is ideal for the plant, but it can tolerate afternoon sun as long as the sun doesn’t directly hit the leaves in the afternoon. If the leaves of the plant become sunburned, they can be moved into a more shaded area to promote healthy growth. For optimal growth, Clusia should receive 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 11-12.

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Pruning

Clusia (Clusia orthoneura) should usually be pruned in the early spring or late winter (January-March). Pruning for Clusia should generally be done in moderation and only to remove dead or damaged branches or to shape. You should avoid pruning more than 25% of a Clusia as this will reduce its vigor and may lead to dieback.

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Propagation

Air Layering Propagation, Cutting, Grafting Propagation, Seed Propagation

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