Phoebe zhennan — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Phoebe zhennan

Phoebe Zhennan

Updated · 5 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Phoebe zhennan is a large species of tree, up to 30 metres (98 ft) tall, in the genus Phoebe of the family Lauraceae. The name "Zhennan" is the transcription of one of the tree's Chinese names, 楨楠/桢楠. It is endemic to China, where it occurs in Guizhou, Hubei, and Sichuan provinces. The species is threatened by habitat loss, and so is under second-class national protection in China. In the past, wood from this tree, referred to as nanmu in China, was so valuable that only royal families could afford their use. Notably, whole logs of Phoebe zhennan wood were used to create pillars for the Forbidden City.

A note from PlantMom

Phoebe zhennan is resistant to disease and generally not liable to suffer from illnesses. With respect to care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Phoebe zhennant is suitable for anyone who has an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and it does not call for extensive care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Phoebe Zhennan.

Light

Phoebe zhennan naturally thrives in habitats like forest understories or rocky terrains, where it's naturally shaded. It prefers conditions of partial sunlight but has the ability to adjust to either complete sun exposure or full shade, underlining its adaptable and robust characteristics.

Temperature

Phoebe zhennan displays impressive resilience to temperature fluctuations, possessing the ability to endure high temperatures as well as significant temperature changes. Adequate watering and shading are crucial during hot conditions to prevent sun damage. Nonetheless, Phoebe zhennan shows less resistance to colder temperatures. Although it can survive mildly cold conditions, overly chilly climates might cause frostbite.

Fertilizer

For optimal growth, provide your Phoebe zhennan with fertilizer in the beginning of spring. Consistent fertilization boosts overall wellbeing, leading to robust growth, the ability to withstand harsh conditions, and a heightened resistance to disease and pests. Adhere to a defined fertilization timetable for your Phoebe zhennan to assure lively leaves with rich color and a thriving look.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Hardiness Zone
8-10
Mature Height
20.12 m to 29.87 m
Mature Spread
10.06 m to 14.94 m
Leaf Color
Dark Green, Forest Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Size
0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
China
PLATES
Phoebe zhennan bark
PLATE 01 · bark
Phoebe zhennan bark
PLATE 02 · bark
Phoebe zhennan habit
PLATE 03 · habit
Phoebe zhennan habit
PLATE 04 · habit
Phoebe zhennan leaf
PLATE 05 · leaf
Phoebe zhennan leaf
PLATE 06 · leaf
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

You might also like.