About

Care Guide

Care FAQ

More About How-Tos

Pests & Diseases

Distribution

More Info

Related Plants

Home > Plant Encyclopedia > Cajuput

Care Guide for Cajuput

Soil

See Details

Slightly acidic, Neutral

Sunlight

See Details

Full sun, Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

See Details

2 to 11

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Download the App

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

Cajuput

Water

Every 2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Download and print this plant care card and attach it to your plants

Download

Questions About Cajuput

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Cajuput?

Your Cajuput will not be too picky about how you choose to water it. As such, you can use just about any common watering tool to moisten this plant’s soil. Watering cans, hoses, and even cups will work just fine when it is time to water your Cajuput. Regardless of which watering tool you use, you should typically apply the water directly to the soil. In doing so, you should ensure that you moisten all soil areas equally to give all parts of the root system the water it needs. It can help to use filtered water, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to plants. It is also beneficial to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature, as colder or hotter water can be somewhat shocking to the Cajuput. However, the Cajuput usually responds well to any kind of water you give it.

What should I do if I water my Cajuput too much or too little?

For outdoor plants, especially newly planted plants or plant seedlings, they can be prone to lack of watering. Remember that you need to keep watering enough for a few months when the tree is small or just planted. This is because once the roots are established, Cajuput can rely on rain most of the time.

When your Cajuput is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Cajuput, you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Cajuput from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Cajuput in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Cajuput, simply water this plant more frequently.

Underwatering is often an easy fix. If you underwater, the plant's leaves will tend to droop and dry out and fall off, and the leaves will quickly return to fullness after sufficient watering. Please correct your watering frequency as soon as underwatering occurs.

How often should I water my Cajuput?

Most plants that grow naturally outdoors can be allowed to grow normally with rainfall. If your area lacks rainfall, consider giving your plants adequate watering every 2 weeks during the spring and fall. More frequent watering is needed in summer. In winter, when growth becomes slower and plants need less water, water more sparingly. Throughout the winter, you may not give it additional watering at all. If your Cajuput is young or newly planted, then you should water more frequently to help it establish, and mature and grow up to have more adaptable and drought tolerant plants.

For potted plants, there are two main ways that you can determine how often to water your Cajuput. The first way is to set a predetermined watering schedule. If you choose this route, you should plan to water this plant about once every week or once every other week. However, this approach may not always work as it does not consider the unique conditions of the growing environment for your Cajuput .

Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water.

How much water does my Cajuput need?

When it comes time to water your Cajuput, you may be surprised to find that this plant does not always need a high volume of water. Instead, if only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, you can support healthy growth in the Cajuput by giving it about five to ten ounces of water every time you water. You can also decide your water volume based on soil moisture. As mentioned above, you should note how many inches of soil have dried out between waterings. A surefire way to make sure your Cajuput gets the moisture it needs is to supply enough water to moisten all the soil layers that became dry since the last time you watered. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes.

If your Cajuput is planted in an area that gets plenty of rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. When the Cajuput is young or just getting established, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Cajuput a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Cajuput enough?

Overwatering is a far more common problem for the Cajuput, and there are several signs you should look for when this occurs. Generally, an overwatered Cajuput will have yellowing leaves and may even drop some leaves. Also, overwatering can cause the overall structure of your plant to shrivel and may also promote root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Cajuput will also begin to wilt. It may also display leaves that are brown or brittle to the touch. Whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, you should be prepared to intervene and restore the health of your Cajuput.

How can I water my Cajuput at different growth stages?

When the Cajuput is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Cajuput that you have transplanted to a new growing location. Also, the Cajuput can develop showy flowers and fruits when you give them the correct care. If your Cajuput is in a flowering or fruiting phase, you will likely need to give a bit more water than you usually would to support these plant structures.

How can I water my Cajuput through the seasons?

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Cajuput. Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Cajuput will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

What's the difference between watering my Cajuput indoors vs outdoors?

In some cases, your Cajuput may not need any supplemental watering when it grows outside and will survive on rainwater alone. However, if you live in an area of little to no rain, you should water this plant about every two weeks. If you belong to the group of people who live out of this plant's natural hardiness zone, you should grow it indoors. In an indoor setting, you should monitor your plant's soil as it can dry out more quickly when it is in a container or when it is exposed to HVAC units such as air conditioners. Those drying factors will lead you to water this plant a bit more often than if you grew it outdoors.

Is pruning necessary for my Cajuput?

Despite having a relatively fast habit of growth, Cajuput does not require very much pruning. It is not necessary to routinely prune this tree, however, it does require some pruning every once in a while. Pruning can be done to tidy this tree up and remove any diseased or damaged foliage. Or Cajuput can be pruned for shaping.

When is the best time to prune my Cajuput?

Cajuput should be pruned as needed. Typically, these trees should be pruned to remove any damaged, yellowing, dying, or dead foliage. It is also necessary to prune this plant to remove any shoots that are congested or are crossing. The best time to prune Cajuput is between late winter to early spring. This is the period when pruning causes the least damage to the plant.

How can I prune my Cajuput?

Pruning Cajuput is a fairly easy task if you know what to look for. To prune these trees, you will need a pair of sharp pruning shears. Using your pruning shears, remove any damaged or diseased parts of the tree. Keep an eye out for any shoots that are becoming congested or are beginning to cross and remove them. Ideally, you should steer clear from pruning any of the tree’s lower limbs. Leaving these intact will allow the tree to have a more natural and open form. Additionally, leaving the lower limbs alone will help to prevent any disease-inducing stress, as well as suckers from forming.

What should I do after pruning my Cajuput?

There are no special requirements to follow after you have pruned your Cajuput. It is recommended, however, that you dispose of any diseased foliage that has been removed from the tree away from any other plants. This is to avoid spreading the disease to other plants. After pruning your Cajuput, you may apply a fertilizer treatment to encourage faster growth. Do not water the plants immediately after pruning as this can lead to fungal infestation of the plants through the wounds.

What should I be careful with when pruning my Cajuput during different growing stages?

The best time to prune Cajuput is between late winter to early spring. This is the period when pruning causes the least damage to the plant. Keep an eye out for any shoots that are becoming congested or are beginning to cross and remove them. Ideally, you should steer clear from pruning any of the tree’s lower limbs. Leaving these intact will allow the tree to have a more natural and open form. This will increase ventilation and light, reduce disease infection and allow Cajuput to grow more vigorously. When pruning branches you need to leave the strong ones and remove the weak ones, keeping healthy auxiliary branches that grow outwards at about 45 degrees. Branches that are too angled or too small should be removed. Pruning Saw is required if the branch is more than three quarters of an inch in size, pruning should be done in the direction of the "Branch bark ridge" to the "Branch collar" to allow for good healing. Branches that require a saw need to be pruned using the "three-cut method", which prevents the bark of the branch from tearing and creating cracks in the trunk, which can be detrimental to the recovery of the plant. Finally, you may prefer to just trim off dead or damaged portions of the plant to keep it looking its best as if it's possible. This can be done at any time of year. Diseased or damaged stems should be cut right at the soil line and removed completely.

Are there any tips for pruning my Cajuput?

The best thing to remember about Cajuput is that they do not require routine pruning. Your tree will likely grow better if you prune it as and when it is necessary and no more than that. Additionally, you should also keep in mind that it is better to leave the lower limbs of this tree alone to prevent stress-induced diseases from attacking your tree. Different diameter branches require different pruning tools. If the tree is too tall, pruning needs to be done safely or by a professional.

How much/long should Cajuput get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Cajuput receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Cajuput need?

Cajuput does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Cajuput? How to protect Cajuput from the sun and heat damage?

Cajuput planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Cajuput during extreme weather events.

Does Cajuput need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Cajuput from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Cajuput, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Cajuput to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Cajuput gets inadequate sunlight?

When Cajuput receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Cajuput receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Cajuput need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Cajuput and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Cajuput fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Cajuput?

Recently transplanted Cajuput will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Cajuput drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

Cajuput that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for Cajuput?

The best temperature for Cajuput to thrive is 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, the highest temperature tolerable would be 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature would be 15℉(-10℃). This species is tolerant of low temperatures and will survive freezing winters. The perfect, highest, and lowest temperature range:

Perfect：65~80℉(18~27℃)

Highest：85~95℉(30~35℃)

Lowest：-5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below

Should I adjust the temperature for Cajuput during different growing phases?

Research shows that Cajuput will begin to exhibit signs of stunted growth during prolonged periods of higher temperatures, especially during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. Keeping the temperatures consistent and cooler, around 65℉(18℃), will encourage vigorous growth after germination or transplanting.

How can I keep Cajuput warm in cold seasons?

Cajuput can withstand freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in areas that don’t get below of 15℉(-10℃) as an extreme temperature during the winter months. But if planted in pots or containers, then their roots must be protected from the winter cold. Do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it inside where it will be fully protected from the elements.

What damage will Cajuput suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Greater harm will come to Cajuput if the temperature is consistently too high versus too low.

If Cajuput gets too hot, seed germination and photosynthesis efficiency is lessened due to hormone triggers caused by heat stress. The plant will show signs through wilting, leaf browning, and potentially death.

If Cajuput gets too cold, plant functions such as nutrient uptake and photosynthesis will cease, resulting in the possible death of the plant. If a single freezing event occurs during the growing season, then a membrane phase transition might occur, which can cause a cease in plant functions and death of the plant.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Cajuput?

Keeping the soil temperature consistent is one of the most important strategies to keeping Cajuput healthy, which leads to successful budding, flowering, and new growth. Do this by consistently watering, adding mulch to bare soil, and planting in the shade.

How can I keep Cajuput warm without a heat pad?

Due to the cold tolerance of Cajuput, heating pads will not be necessary if planted outside in the ground. If the plant is in an outdoor pot, then bring it inside a heated house and place it in a sunny window during the winter months.

How can I provide Cajuput with an adequate temperature condition?

To ensure adequate temperature conditions are present, plant Cajuput in an area with partial shade. If possible, use afternoon shade to provide the best protection during the hottest part of the day. This will also result in lower temperatures in the soil due to increased moisture retention. If Cajuput is planted indoors, then keep the container away from windows and out of direct sunlight during the summer months to prevent the soil temperature from spiking daily.

How can I save Cajuput from temperature damage?

During the summer or times of high heat, give Cajuput extra shade and water to help cool its leaves, roots, and soil. During cold snaps or growing season freezes, cover sensitive budding vegetation with frost cloth or water using sprinkler systems. If it’s only nearing freezing temperatures for a short period, then water during the day several hours before the freeze. If the temperature is predicted to remain below freezing for an extended period, then keep the sprinkler running until the temperature rises above freezing the following day.

Should I adjust the temperature for Cajuput in different seasons?

Cajuput is a mid-temperature plant that can easily tolerate the typical fluctuations of the seasons and remain a hardy species when planted in maintained landscapes areas, containers, or indoors. Therefore, adjusting the temperature during the different seasons is unnecessary for primary growth. If flowering is stunted or impeded, then allowing the plant to experience a season of winter freeze could help to revive flowering.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Cajuput?

If it becomes too difficult to lower the temperature for an indoor plant during the summer, then plant it outside in the ground or in a container. Make sure to plant Cajuput in a shaded location and water often to keep the soil moist.

Why do I need to fertilize my Cajuput?

You need to fertilize a Cajuput for a few important reasons. The most obvious of these reasons is that fertilizer will help your Cajuput produce lovely blooms. Fertilizing in early spring is one of the best ways to ensure that your Cajuput has excellent flowers during that season.

Fertilizer also gives your Cajuput plenty of energy that it can store in the ground during its dormant growth phases. Giving your Cajuput some extra nutrients during the fall planting process or during the late spring will help your Cajuput hold more energy to use once active growth resumes.

When is the best time to fertilize my Cajuput?

Timing is crucial when it comes to fertilizing Cajuput. If you use fertilizer too early while the Cajuput is still dormant at this time. This fertilizer cannot be used effectively and will be washed away by rainwater, causing waste and pollution. The first application of fertilizer should be applied in the early spring. Continue fertilizing once a month until early summer.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Cajuput?

Avoid giving Cajuput a fertilizer with too much nitrogen, since this can lead to development of plenty of leaves but not many blooms. Look for fertilizer with a lower level of nitrogen compared to other nutrients.

Do not fertilize after the early autumn, which can cause too much growth just before winter. Also, Cajuput should not be fertilized during hot and dry times of year, since dry soil does not deliver fertilizer as effectively as moist soil. Fertilizing at this time can also stimulate growth which in turn needs more water that may not be available. It is best to keep fertilizer for earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler.

Finally, remember that Cajuput can absorb fertilizer that has been applied to nearby plants or lawns, so be cautious about inadvertently giving tree/shurb a double-dose of fertilizer.

What type of fertilizer does my Cajuput need?

The ideal fertilizer for a Cajuput is one that has a relatively balanced mix of the three main plant nutrients, with slightly higher amounts of phosphorus. Alternatively, some gardeners choose to improve their Cajuput 's soil by adding organic materials such as compost, worm castings, and manure. Some experienced gardeners will supplement 1-2 times with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus when the flower buds start to appear. This will help the flowers develop better and allow them to grow larger and bloom longer.

Fertilizers can come in many forms, and most of these forms will work well for your Cajuput. However, some of the best fertilizers for Cajuput come in either a liquid or a powdered form. Regardless of which you use, you should ensure that you dilute your fertilizer and apply it while watering your Cajuput.

How do I fertilize my Cajuput?

Always follow directions for the specific type of fertilizer and do research on how to use it for the Cajuput you are growing. It is important not to over-fertilize your Cajuput, so determining the correct amount to use is crucial. The usual rule of thumb is to use the age of the tree (if known) or the diameter of the trunk to understand how much fertilizer should be used. Estimate a one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound.

Granular fertilizers and organic fertilizers such as blood meal are applied by sprinkling the substance around the base of the tree all the way to the drip line (the space below the farthest-reaching branches) but do not let fertilizer come in contact with the trunk. Over time, the granules break down and filter into the soil to be absorbed into the roots. After fertilizing, spread an inch-deep layer of compost around the base of the tree and water thoroughly.

What happens if I fertilize my Cajuput too much?

It is far better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize, since you can always add more but you cannot easily take away excess fertilizer. Over-fertilizing your Cajuput may cause brown leaf tips and edges, yellowing, wilting leaves, and possibly a visible crust of fertilizer salts on the surface of the soil around the tree. This condition is called fertilizer burn and results from too many accumulated salts in the plant’s cells. If excess nitrogen is the issue, the Cajuput will produce a lot of leaves but won’t grow much flowers since nitrogen supports foliage growth.

If you have overfertilized, you could try removing the top layer of soil under the Cajuput to remove the most concentrated area of fertilizer. Then flush the area by watering heavily to try to get rid of fertilizer around the roots.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

More About How-Tos

Explore 5 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant, etc.

Feng shui direction

South

The cajuput plant exudes a strong aura compatible with Feng Shui, particularly when facing South. This direction is associated with the Fire element, harnessing the cajuput's naturally vigorous energy. However, its influence is interpretive and may vary from one individual to another.

Learn More

Water

Every 2 weeks

Learn More

Lighting

Full sun

Cajuput is a plant that thrives under ample sunlight exposure, fostering healthy growth. It can thrive under partial shade, although this may slow its development. Its natural environments are typically in regions with abundant sun. Excessive or insufficient sunlight can impact its vitality, with too little light stunting growth while excess sunlight may cause leaf scorch.

Learn More

Temperature

-35 43 ℃

Cajuput is native to environments where the temperature ranges from 32 to 100.4 °F (0 to 38 °C). It prefers mild climates with a lot of sunlight. To maintain optimal health, the plant's surroundings should mirror these conditions through seasonal adjustments, if necessary.

Learn More

Transplant

5-6 feet

Transplanting cajuput is best in S1-S3, when environmental stresses are minimal. It thrives in well-drained soil, preferably in a sunny location. Be gentle during transplant as cajuput can be sensitive to root disturbance. Remember, cajuput's success relies on proper transplanting.

Learn More

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Cajuput based on 10 million real cases

Longhorn beetles

The longhorn beetle is a medium- to large-sized insect with very long antennae and strong jaws. Both its adult and larval stages gnaw on tree trunks, leaving small, round holes.

Solutions: Some longhorn beetles species are native insects, and they cause little damage. Therefore, these don't warrant control. Other longhorn beetles species are invasive pests that were recently introduced from other areas. These species can cause a great deal of damage to hardwood trees. Apply an insecticide containing imidacloprid as a soil injection or trunk injection following product instructions. This will enter into new grow and kill adults who feed on foliage. This will not help save trees that are already infested with large amounts of larvae, but it will save trees located near an infested tree. Contact an arborist for best control practices regarding infected trees. To properly control longhorn beetles, all host plants in a given area must be treated. Contact a local extension agent or state agency. Tracking the spread of longhorn beetles is a key component of their control.

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

Solutions: Inspect trees frequently, and remove any infected branches as soon as possible. Branch blight cannot be cured, so the only treatment is to prune the tree and monitor it carefully for signs of the disease. All affected parts of the tree should be removed, since blight can survive over the winter inside the plant’s tissues. Blight can become systemic in the tree, in which case the entire plant should be removed so it does not remain a host for the pathogen and allow it to spread.

Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

Solutions: There are a number of appropriate solutions to control fruit withering: Remove any fruit as soon as it shows any signs of infection. Do not compost. Use a fungicide prior to leaf bud and then as per manufacturers instructions throughout the season.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Distribution Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Tree

Flower Color

White

Green

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Related Plants

Fairy washboard

Fairy washboard (Haworthiopsis limifolia) is a South African native succulent which produces compressed, stemless rosettes of tea green to hazel green foliage, plump and healthy roots, and white flowers with sage-colored veins. This plant’s scientific name is derived from two Latin terms: "limes," which means "file" or "sharpen," and "folia," which means "leaf", referring to the transverse spikes of its foliage.

Bloom Time

Spring, summer

Fairy washboard

The fairy washboard (Haworthia limifolia) earns its fanciful common name from its leaves, which are ridged and resemble an old-fashioned washboard for laundry. These leaves grow in a rosette pattern. Fairy washboard is native to southeastern Africa but is often cultivated as a houseplant. It produces small, tubular clusters of unremarkable white flowers.

Bloom Time

Summer

Engelmann oak

Engelmann oak (Quercus engelmannii) is a rare oak tree that is native to Southern California. Can grow from 10 to 20 m tall and up to 27 m wide. It will remain evergreen with proper irrigation but may become deciduous in summer due to drought conditions. Blooms winter and spring with clusters of creamy whitish-green flowers. Produces acorns and attracts birds, butterflies and caterpillars. Thrives in full sun with dry to moist soil.

Bloom Time

Spring

Garden Usage

A number of oak species have been widely used as ornamental tree. They are celebrated for their aesthetic value when mature and their cultural significance. It is usually grown as specimen tree, establishes a point of focus in your garden. Shrubs and herbs are usually grown around it to provide a rich texture in the landscaping. Oaks are relatively easy to care when they are in right environment, just take care about the draining and watering frequency.

Engelmann daisy

Engelmann daisy (Engelmannia peristenia) is a perennial wildflower that will grow to 61 cm tall. Bright yellow daisy flowers bloom from spring to summer. Blossoms open in late afternoon and fold under hot sunlight the following day. Thrives in full sun and dry soil and even blooms well in drought conditions. Livestock love the plant and birds are attracted to its seeds.

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Enchanter's- nightshade

The enchanter's- nightshade is a unique member of the Evening Primrose family. It grows well in the part-shade of woody habitats and makes for excellent browse for wandering deer. Each little flower contains two lobed white petals, two sepals, and two stamens. It is not related to Deadly Nightshade at all, but rather a member of the willowherb family.

Bloom Time

Spring, summer

Emu bush

Emu bush (Eremophila nivea) is a shrub that is increasingly rare in the wild, reaching the point where the Department of Environment and Conservation of Western Australia has classified it as Threatened Flora (Declared Rare Flora — Extant). Fortunately, its grey foliage and lovely purple flowers make it a popular ornamental plant that is tolerant of most soils, as long as it is placed somewhere with full exposure to the sun, helping aid its revival.

Plant Collection Most Common Tree White mulberry See More A unique and easy-to-grow edible landscaping plant, the White mulberry is prized for its tasty fruits as well as its exquisite ornamental appeal. Originally native to China, this plant was valued for its role in silk production: silkworms will only eat the leaves of White mulberryContinue reading “Most Common Tree”

Useful Tips

Best Perennial Plant to Grow

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plantContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Useful Tips

Best Perennial Plant to Grow

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it isContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Useful Tips

Most Common Tree

View More Articles

Add to My Garden

Cajuput

Melaleuca cajuputi

Melaleuca cajuputi is an important source of Cajuput oil, an essential oil used as a remedy for bacterial or fungal infections in fish. The trunk of this medium tree is spongy to the touch. Commonly called cajuput, it is a food source for the caterpillars of several moths, such as Attacus atlas.

Hardiness Zones

2 to 11

Care Guide for Cajuput

Soil

Slightly acidic, Neutral

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

2 to 11

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Download the App

Questions About Cajuput

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Cajuput?

What should I do if I water my Cajuput too much or too little?

How often should I water my Cajuput?

How much water does my Cajuput need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Cajuput enough?

How can I water my Cajuput at different growth stages?

How can I water my Cajuput through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Cajuput indoors vs outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Cajuput?

When is the best time to prune my Cajuput?

How can I prune my Cajuput?

What should I do after pruning my Cajuput?

What should I be careful with when pruning my Cajuput during different growing stages?

Are there any tips for pruning my Cajuput?

How much/long should Cajuput get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does Cajuput need?

Can sunlight damage Cajuput? How to protect Cajuput from the sun and heat damage?

Does Cajuput need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Cajuput from the sun?

What will happen if Cajuput gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Cajuput need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Cajuput?

What is the optimal temperature for Cajuput?

Should I adjust the temperature for Cajuput during different growing phases?

How can I keep Cajuput warm in cold seasons?

What damage will Cajuput suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Cajuput?

How can I keep Cajuput warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide Cajuput with an adequate temperature condition?

How can I save Cajuput from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for Cajuput in different seasons?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Cajuput?

Why do I need to fertilize my Cajuput?

When is the best time to fertilize my Cajuput?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Cajuput?

What type of fertilizer does my Cajuput need?

How do I fertilize my Cajuput?

What happens if I fertilize my Cajuput too much?

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App

More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Cajuput based on 10 million real cases

Longhorn beetles

The longhorn beetle is a medium- to large-sized insect with very long antennae and strong jaws. Both its adult and larval stages gnaw on tree trunks, leaving small, round holes.

Learn More

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

Learn More

Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App

Distribution Map

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Tree

Flower Color

White

Green

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Download the App

Related Plants

Fairy washboard

Haworthiopsis limifolia

Engelmannia peristenia

Enchanter's- nightshade

Best Perennial Plant to Grow

# Useful Tips

Best Perennial Plant to Grow

# Useful Tips

Most Common Tree

# Useful Tips

Discover more articles?

Indoor

Requirements

Full sun

Ideal

Above 6 hours sunlight

Partial sun

Tolerance

About 3-6 hours sunlight

Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness.

Essentials

Preferred

Tolerable

Unsuitable

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Download the App

Artificial lighting

Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.

Important Symptoms

Insufficient light

Cajuput thrives in full sunlight but is sensitive to heat. As a plant commonly grown outdoors with abundant sunlight, it may exhibit subtle symptoms of light deficiency when placed in rooms with suboptimal lighting.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Small leaves

New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.

Leggy or sparse growth

The spaces between leaves or stems of your Cajuput may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.

Faster leaf drop

When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.

Slower or no new growth

Cajuput enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.

Lighter-colored new leaves

Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.

Solutions

1. To ensure optimal growth, gradually move plants to a sunnier location each week, until they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window and keep curtains open during the day for maximum sunlight exposure and nutrient accumulation.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.

Excessive light

Cajuput thrives in full sun exposure but is sensitive to heat. Although sunburn symptoms occasionally occur, they are unable to withstand intense sunlight in high-temperature environments.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Chlorosis

Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.

Sunscald

Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.

Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.

Wilting

Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.

Leaf Scorching

Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.

Solutions

1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.

Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.

Indoor

Requirements

Ideal

Tolerable

Unsuitable

Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care.

Essentials

Regional wintering strategies

Cajuput has strong cold resistance, so special frost protection measures are usually not necessary during winter. However, if the winter temperatures are expected to drop below {Limit_growth_temperature}, it is still important to provide cold protection. This can be achieved by wrapping the trunk and branches with materials such as non-woven fabric or cloth. Before the first freeze in autumn, it is recommended to water the plant abundantly, ensuring the soil remains moist and enters a frozen state. This helps prevent drought and water scarcity for the plant during winter and early spring.

Important Symptoms

Low Temperature

Cajuput is cold-tolerant and thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, although there may not be any noticeable changes during winter, the branches may become brittle and dry during springtime, and no new shoots will emerge.

Solutions

In spring, prune away any dead branches that have failed to produce new leaves.

High Temperature

During summer, Cajuput should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the leaves of the plant may become lighter in color, the tips may become dry and withered, and the plant becomes more susceptible to sunburn.

Solutions

Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun, or use a shade cloth to create shade. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.

Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.

Cookie Name	Source	Purpose	Lifespan
_ga	Google Analytics	These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here.	1 Year
_pta	PictureThis Analytics	We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience.	1 Year

Cookie Name	Source	Purpose	Lifespan
_fbp	Facebook Pixel	A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here.	1 Year
_adj	Adjust	This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here.	1 Year

Care Guide for Cajuput

Questions About Cajuput

More Questions People Also Ask

More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Distribution Map

More Info

Scientific Classification

Related Plants

Related Articles

Care Guide for Cajuput

Questions About Cajuput

More Questions People Also Ask

More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Distribution Map

Map

More Info

Scientific Classification

Related Plants

Related Articles