How big does an autograph tree get?

The autograph tree has stiff, dark green or olive-colored leathery leaves that grow to about 8 inches long….Also Known as Pitch Apple, Copey, and Balsam Apple.

Botanical Name Clusia rosea
Mature Size 8 to 10 feet tall and wide (can reach 25 feet tall as a tree)

Is the autograph tree fruit edible?

The upper leaf tissue registers ‘writing’ giving it the common name autograph tree. The tree produces a fleshy, light green but poisonous fruit; once the fruit has split, the seeds are favored by birds and other wildlife.

How do you care for a Clusia rosea plant?

To provide good Clusia rosea care, place your plant in bright, indirect light, water to maintain consistently moist soil, and plant in very well-draining soil. Provide temperatures of 59°F (15°C) to 86°F (30°C), medium to high humidity, and fertilize monthly during the growing season.

How fast do clusia trees grow?

Clusia guttifera and Clusia rosea are moderately fast growers. The small leaf Clusia (Clusia guttifera) grows to about 6 ft. (1.8 m) high or even taller. Trimming helps keep the bushy shrub growing as an attractive privacy screen.

How do you look after an autograph tree?

Provide a bright, indirect location with little to no direct sunlight. If it’s bright enough to read a newspaper without the use of artificial light, it’ll be enough for the plant, too! Autograph Trees require moist soil, with the top few inches drying out in between waters.

Is clusia poisonous to dogs?

While the leaves may have some toxins in them, the fruit of the plant is considered the most toxic part.

Is clusia rosea toxic?

While the leaves may have some toxins in them, the fruit of the plant is considered the most toxic part. The seeds can be eaten without effect by wild birds.

Why is it called an autograph tree?

Why Is It Called An Autograph Plant? The name comes from the thick, waxy leaves. Due to the nature oft them, you can scratch things into them, such as an autograph. In the west indies, people would etch their name into ta leaf and plant it to watch it grow.

How big does a clusia rosea grow?

Grown outside, this fast-growing plant can reach heights of up to 6m. Indoors they can be kept as compact houseplants between 50-100cm.

How do you water clusia rosea?

Because it is a tropical plant it is important to always keep the soil slightly moist. You can let the plant dry up a little before watering again, make sure that the roots do not remain in the water because of the root rot that then occurs.

Is clusia plant toxic to dogs?

Is clusia rosea native to Florida?

Clusia is a low maintenance plant that has thick, leathery leaves and a low branching pattern which makes it a nice choice for a hedge. It’s also drought and salt tolerant with few pests, making a perfect plant for Sanibel. Only one species however, Clusia rosea, is native to Florida.

How to care for an autograph tree ( Clusia rosea )?

So, in order to propagate the tree all you need to do is take a cutting and plant it. Ideally the cutting needs to be planted in warm, moist soil and then allow it some time to fully root. But bear in mind the epiphytic properties when planting this, as if its near other plants it may take over the roots and kill your other plants.

How did the Clusia rosea get its name?

Clusia Rosea is known with many names among plant enthusiasts, but most people recognize it as “Autograph Tree.” The mystery behind this name is its superfluous, fluffy, and thick leaves on which people scratch their names and see them growing with these words. There are many interesting facts about this tree, and it is effortless to care about.

How do you propagate a Clusia rosea tree?

Clusia Rosea or autograph tree can be propagated through seeds as well as stems. To propagate it through stems, you can simply cut the branches and sow in the pots. The plant will reproduce so quickly, and you can replant the branch cuttings as many times as you need to make the collection of autograph tree plants.

Is the autograph tree a magnolia or a Clusia?

The bird-dispersed seeds will sprout on other plants, send out aerial roots to the ground, and then strangle, smother, and replace the host plant. This is the only Clusia species found here in Hawaii. The leaves and flowers somewhat resemble those of a Southern Magnolia, but Autograph Tree is not related to magnolias.