Alangium platanifolium — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Alangium platanifolium

Alangium Platanifolium

Updated · 41 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Alangium platanifolium is a species of Alangium found in China, Japan, and Taiwan at elevations below 2000 meters.

A note from PlantMom

Flat-leaved alangium shows strong disease resistance and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When cultivated outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they have finished blooming. Flat-leaved alangium is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much prior gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Alangium Platanifolium.

Light

Flat-leaved alangium usually performs best when it receives abundant sunlight, though it can tolerate locations with occasional shade. That preference reflects its native habitat, which is typically sunny. Excessive sun can cause sunscald, while insufficient light may lead to stunted growth and loss of color.

Water

The flat-leaved alangium thrives in environments with sporadic rainfall, as it prefers moderate humidity and is tolerant of drought. Water the plant every 1 to 2 weeks, ensuring the soil partially dries out between waterings. If you're growing it outdoors in temperate zones, reduce watering during the colder months when the plant goes dormant to conserve resources.

Temperature

Flat-leaved alangium comes from habitats where temperatures are generally between 50 and 95 °F (10 to 35 °C). It grows best within that temperature range. Depending on local climate, seasonal adjustments to temperature may be necessary.

Fertilizer

Timing is important when fertilizing Flat-leaved alangium. Fertilize in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and provides energy during both dormant and active growth phases.

Pruning

For optimal growth, flat-leaved alangium should be pruned in early spring. Focus on removing dead branches, thinning out crowded areas, and maintaining the plant's structure. Prune before new growth begins to promote vigor and enhance both the plant's aesthetics and health. This makes flat-leaved alangium a valuable addition to gardens.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Alangium
Family
Cornaceae
Hardiness Zone
6-10
Mature Height
4.88 m to 7.01 m
Mature Spread
0.91 m to 1.83 m
Leaf Color
Green, Yellow
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
Russia, Koppen, Japan, South Korea
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Palmate-leaf alangium
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Flat-leaved alangium plant?

To ensure excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of the plant. Avoid spraying water directly on the leaves. If the plant is outdoors and in direct sunlight, the leaves will need more watering. Consider using bubblers or soaker hoses to keep the roots moist. When adding or removing plants, use soaker hoses that cover the entire garden or bed to deeply water the roots. Remember to drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. Water at ground level to prevent diseases. On a sunny day, it may be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether potted or in-ground, Flat-leaved alangium prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

Why should I add fertilizer to my Flat-leaved alangium plant?

If you own a Flat-leaved alangium, regardless of the type, regular fertilization is important for its overall health. This will provide the necessary nutrients for stronger growth and better resistance against harsh conditions, diseases, and pests. The foliage of your Flat-leaved alangium is one of its attractive features, so it's essential to maintain it. Follow a regular fertilization schedule designed specifically for your plant to encourage deep-colored and lush leaves.

How many hours of sunlight per day does Flat-leaved alangium need to grow well?

To ensure healthy growth, Flat-leaved alangium needs a minimum of 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. Although it can tolerate both partial and full sun, plants that can handle part sun are more adaptable since they require less light for photosynthesis compared to those that need full sun or part shade.

What temperature is best for Flat-leaved alangium?

The ideal temperature range for Flat-leaved alangium to thrive is between 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, the highest temperature that can be tolerated is 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature is 15℉(-10℃). Flat-leaved alangium is a hardy species that can survive freezing winters and is tolerant of low temperatures. For optimal growth, the temperature ranges are as follows: Perfect: 65~80℉(18~27℃), Highest: 85~95℉(30~35℃), Lowest: -5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below.

What should I do if I give Flat-leaved alangium plant too much water or too little water?

An overwatered Flat-leaved alangium can show several signs of distress. The leaves may turn yellow, wilt, and eventually drop off. The plant may appear dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. It is important to adjust your watering schedule when you start to see these signs. However, wilting can also be a sign of under watering. In this case, the leaves may become crispy and dry. If the soil is dry and simply watering is not enough, give the plant a thorough watering. This will help the Flat-leaved alangium recover, but it may still have dry and yellow leaves due to a damaged root system. Once it returns to normal, the yellowing of the leaves will stop. When you have the plant indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. Look for any signs of black spots, and if present, allow the soil to dry by not watering for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so if you notice discolored and slimy roots, consider transferring the plant to a different pot. Preventing root rot is crucial, so avoid letting the soil become too soggy. When planting the Flat-leaved alangium outdoors, ensure that you dig slightly deeper. If you feel that the soil is too dry when you check with your fingers, this could indicate underwatering. Adequate watering is necessary to help the plant recover.

What is the best time to fertilize my Flat-leaved alangium?

To properly fertilize your Flat-leaved alangium, start by doing it in late winter or early spring. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth when the weather warms up. If you live in a warm climate region, it is also beneficial to give an additional fertilizer feeding in early fall. This adds nutrients for the following growing season and helps the plant survive winter without damage. By fertilizing earlier, you allow new branches enough time to grow and withstand the cold.

What kind of sunlight does Flat-leaved alangium require?

Flat-leaved alangium thrives in full or part sun, particularly in direct morning light. However, in summer, it requires protection from the intense afternoon sun to avoid leaf burn and maintain its overall appearance and health, especially in temperate environments.

Should I change the temperature for Flat-leaved alangium at different stages of growth?

According to research, Flat-leaved alangium plants tend to show stunted growth when exposed to prolonged higher temperatures. This is particularly prominent while axillary buds are developing and the main shoots are growing. To stimulate healthy growth after germination or transplanting, it is advisable to maintain consistent and cooler temperatures, ideally around 65℉(18℃).

How often should I give water to my Flat-leaved alangium plant?

The Flat-leaved alangium prefers deep and infrequent watering. When planted in pots, it is important to soak them in a gallon of water each time, as the water storage in pots is limited and the soil tends to dry out faster. In colder regions, watering is required every 3 to 5 days. Watering should be done early in the morning when the soil is dry, whether the plant is placed outdoors or indoors. To determine if watering is needed, check the soil inside the pot. If the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, it is time to give the plant a thorough watering. On hot days, check the moisture daily as the heat can quickly dry out the soil in the pot. For garden plants, irrigation of the soil is also necessary. In hot climates, watering once a week is sufficient. Only water when you notice that about 2 to 3 inches of soil have become too dry. Take into consideration the amount of rainfall to avoid overwatering and root rot. It may not be necessary to water the plants additionally if there is already a lot of rainfall. Flat-leaved alangium typically grows during spring and fall. Outdoors, it is beneficial to add mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep to conserve water. Sandy soils tend to drain faster, so plants in such soil should be watered more frequently. On the other hand, clay soils retain moisture better, so watering can be done less often, allowing the plant to dry out for 2-3 days to avoid root rot. You can keep track of watering dates on a calendar and be observant of any drooping leaves, which may indicate that watering is needed.

When is it not a good idea to fertilize my Flat-leaved alangium plant?

There are specific times of the year when you should avoid fertilizing your Flat-leaved alangium. The first is in early and mid-winter when the plant is dormant and does not require any feeding. Additionally, it is not recommended to fertilize during late spring and summer due to hotter and drier weather conditions. Fertilizing during this time can lead to negative effects on the plant. To prevent any issues, it is best to stick to a fertilization schedule that only involves feeding in early spring and early fall.

Can the sun hurt Flat-leaved alangium plants? How can I keep my Flat-leaved alangium safe from the sun and heat?

Indoor flat-leaved alangium plants should be protected from direct sunlight when moved outdoors to avoid damage. The best way to prevent sunburn is to gradually move the pots from a shaded area to a brighter spot. However, even plants acclimated to the sun can be harmed by extreme heat. During a heatwave, it is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist to help the plants cope with excessive heat. Additionally, providing afternoon shade or using a shade cloth can offer protection to sensitive flat-leaved alangium plants during extreme weather conditions.

How can I make sure Flat-leaved alangium stays warm during the cold seasons?

Flat-leaved alangium is able to tolerate freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in regions where the temperature does not drop below 15℉ (-10℃) during winter. However, if it is planted in pots or containers, it is necessary to protect the roots from the cold. This can be done by wrapping the container in a blanket or by bringing it indoors where it will be completely shielded from the weather.

PLATES
Alangium platanifolium leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Alangium platanifolium leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Alangium platanifolium flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Alangium platanifolium flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Alangium platanifolium fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Alangium platanifolium bark
PLATE 06 · bark
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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