Sinojackia xylocarpa — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Sinojackia xylocarpa

Sinojackia Xylocarpa

Updated · 6 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Sinojackia xylocarpa is a species of flowering plant in the family Styracaceae. It is endemic to eastern China in Jiangsu province, where it occurs at altitudes of 500–800 m. It is threatened by habitat loss.It is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing to 7 m tall, with a trunk up to 10 cm diameter. The leaves are alternate, simple, with a serrated margin and a 5 mm petiole; they are mostly 3–9 cm long and 2–5 cm broad and obovate to elliptic, but the leaves subtending inflorescences are smaller, 2–5 cm long and 1–2 cm broad. The inflorescences are 3–5 cm long, bearing three to five flowers with five petals.

A note from PlantMom

The Jack tree is well resistant to disease and is usually not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding 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 have finished blooming. The Jack tree is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, like a garden or a deck, and does not demand much prior gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Sinojackia Xylocarpa.

Light

The jack tree prefers ample sunlight for healthy growth but can tolerate lower light levels. Native to areas with strong sun, it performs best with abundant light. Insufficient light can impede its growth, while excessive exposure may cause damage.

Water

The jack tree thrives with moderate moisture and benefits from regular watering that is consistent but not excessive. Once the tree is established, it becomes drought-tolerant. It is ideal to water the tree every three weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Applying mulch around the tree helps retain moisture and protects it from temperature extremes.

Temperature

Jack tree is a plant that flourishes in its native temperate climate, with temperatures from 59 to 95 °F (15 to 35 ℃). During colder seasons, it is recommended to keep indoor temperatures within that range to support healthy growth.

Fertilizer

Timing is essential for fertilizing the Jack tree. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during dormancy and active growth.

Pruning

The Jack tree is known for its beautiful white flowers and unique fruit. To maintain its health and appearance, prune the tree in early spring. Remove any dead branches and thin out the canopy to improve air circulation. Regular pruning encourages growth and blooming. Always use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease and to make clean cuts that promote proper healing.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Sinojackia
Family
Styracaceae
Hardiness Zone
7-10
Mature Height
7.01 m
Mature Spread
4.57 m to 6.1 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
China
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Jack tree
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Jack tree the best?

To ensure excellent root development, place a garden hose near the base of the plant. Avoid spraying the leaves directly, and keep in mind that leaves need more watering if they are outdoors and in direct sunlight. You can also use bubblers or soaker hoses to moisten the roots. When adding or removing plants, use soaker hoses to thoroughly water the entire garden or bed, allowing the roots to be deeply hydrated. Remember to drain excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. It's important to water at ground level to prevent diseases. On a sunny day, consider spraying the entire bush with water. Whether the Jack tree is potted or planted in the ground, deep watering is preferred over light sprinkling.

Why is it important to put fertilizer on my Jack tree?

Fertilizing a Jack tree is crucial for multiple reasons. Firstly, it helps your tree produce beautiful blooms. One of the best times to fertilize in order to ensure excellent flowers is early spring. Additionally, fertilizer provides your Jack tree with ample energy that it can store in the ground during periods of dormant growth. By giving your tree extra nutrients during fall planting or late spring, it can hold more energy to use once active growth resumes.

How many hours of sunlight does Jack's tree need each day to grow healthy?

To encourage healthy growth, it's important to provide the Jack tree with at least 3-6 hours of sunlight every day. This is the minimum amount needed for most plants that can tolerate partial sunlight, but they can also do well in full sun. These plants are more adaptable because they require less light for photosynthesis compared to plants that need full sun or partial shade.

What is the best temperature for a Jack tree?

The Jack tree thrives best in temperatures ranging from 65 to 80℉ (18 to 27℃). During the main growing phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95℉ (35℃) and as low as 15℉ (-10℃). This species is resilient to freezing winters. The recommended temperature range for optimal growth is 65 to 80℉ (18 to 27℃), with the highest acceptable range being 85 to 95℉ (30 to 35℃), and the lowest acceptable range being -5 to 15℉ (-20 to -10℃) or below.

What should I do if I give the Jack tree too much or too little water?

An overwatered Jack tree can show signs of yellowing, dropping leaves, and wilting. The tree may also look unhealthy with mushy stems. If these signs appear, adjust your watering schedule. Wilting can also indicate under watering, in which case the leaves become crispy and dry. Check the soil for dryness and if watering alone is insufficient, give the tree a thorough watering. Although this will help the tree recover, it may still have dry and yellow leaves due to root damage for a few days. Once the tree returns to normal, the yellowing will stop. When you have a Jack tree indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. Look for signs of black spots, and if present, let the soil dry out for a few days before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, so if you see discolored and slimy roots, consider transferring the tree to a different pot. It is important to prevent root rot by avoiding excessively soggy soil. When planting a Jack tree outdoors, dig deeper to check the soil moisture. If it feels too dry, it may indicate underwatering, and the tree will benefit from adequate watering to recover.

When should I fertilize my Jack tree to get the best results?

To maximize its effectiveness and minimize waste, it is important to time the application of fertilizer for Jack trees carefully. Avoid applying it too early when the tree is dormant, as rainwater can wash it away, leading to pollution and wasted resources. Instead, the first application of fertilizer should be done in early spring, followed by monthly applications until early summer.

What kind of sunlight does the Jack tree need?

Jack trees thrive in environments with full or partial sun exposure. They flourish when provided direct morning light and in the summer, it is crucial to shield them from the intense afternoon sun. Excessive hot afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, negatively impacting the plant's overall appearance and well-being, particularly in temperate climates.

Do I need to change the temperature for Jack trees as they grow?

According to research, the Jack tree's growth is affected by prolonged periods of high temperatures, particularly when axillary buds and main shoots are developing. To promote healthy growth after germination or transplantation, it is recommended to keep temperatures consistent and cooler, around 65℉(18℃).

How many times should I water my Jack tree?

The Jack tree prefers deep and infrequent watering, especially when planted in pots. To ensure proper hydration, soak them in a gallon of water each time. Potted plants have limited water storage and the soil tends to dry out faster. In colder regions, water every 3 to 5 days. Water early in the morning when the soil is dry, whether indoors or outdoors. Check the soil moisture by examining the top 2-3 inches. If it's dry, give the plant a thorough watering. During hot days, monitor the moisture daily as the heat can quickly dry out the pot's soil. A garden may require irrigation as well. In hot climates, water once a week when the top 2-3 inches of soil is too dry. Avoid adding water if there has been ample rainfall to prevent root rot. Jack trees typically grow in spring and fall. When planted outdoors, add 3 to 4 inches of mulch to conserve water. Sandy soil drains faster, so water more frequently. Clay soil, on the other hand, requires less frequent watering to avoid root rot. Consider marking the watering dates on a calendar and pay attention to drooping leaves, as they may indicate a need for immediate hydration.

When should I not add fertilizer to my Jack tree?

To avoid excessive leaf growth and limited blooms, be cautious about using fertilizers high in nitrogen on Jack trees. Opt for fertilizers that have a lower nitrogen level compared to other nutrients. Additionally, refrain from fertilizing the tree after early autumn, as it can lead to excessive growth before winter. Avoid fertilizing during hot and dry periods, as the dry soil may not effectively deliver the fertilizer and stimulate further growth that requires more water, which may not be available. It is advisable to apply fertilizer during cooler temperatures earlier in the season. Lastly, take care not to inadvertently give the tree a double-dose of fertilizer, as Jack trees can absorb fertilizer applied to nearby plants or lawns.

Can the sun harm the Jack tree? How can I keep the Jack tree safe from the sun and heat?

When Jack trees are moved outdoors, they can be easily harmed by direct sunlight. To prevent sunburn from too much exposure, it's best to move the pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot. Even plants that are used to the summer sun can still be damaged by intense heat. To help them cope with extreme heat, it's important to keep the soil consistently moist. If there's a heatwave, it can be helpful to move container plants to areas with afternoon shade or place a shade cloth over them. This will protect sensitive Jack trees during extreme weather.

How can I make sure Jack's tree stays warm during cold seasons?

Jack trees can tolerate freezing temperatures if they are planted directly in the ground, as long as the temperature does not drop below 15℉ (-10℃). However, if the trees are planted in pots or containers, their roots need to be shielded from the winter cold. To accomplish this, you can wrap the container with a blanket or bring it indoors to provide complete protection from the elements.

PLATES
Sinojackia xylocarpa leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Sinojackia xylocarpa leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Sinojackia xylocarpa flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Sinojackia xylocarpa fruit
PLATE 04 · fruit
Sinojackia xylocarpa fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Sinojackia xylocarpa habit
PLATE 06 · habit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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