Mapunyao (Aglaia mariannensis)

Also known as: Mariana aglaia, Chamorro tree

Mapunyao is a tropical evergreen plant noted for its resilience and compact growth habit. It features a dense canopy of glossy, dark green leaves, which help it maintain moisture and withstand the humid conditions of its environment. Occasionally, mapunyao produces small, fragrant yellow flowers, which eventually give way to unobtrusive fruit that serves as a food source for local wildlife. The plant is well-adapted to thrive under the shade provided by taller trees, making efficient use of the limited sunlight available in dense forest settings.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Mapunyao

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

10-20 meters

Spread

6-12 meters

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

0.5-1 cm

Flower Color

Yellowish

Images of Mapunyao

Quickly Identify Mapunyao

Aglaia mariannensis can be identified by its glossy, dark green leaves that are pinnately compound, and by its small, yellowish flowers that are highly fragrant. The tree produces small, bright yellow to orange fruits.

Scientific Classification of Mapunyao

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Sapindales

Family

Mahogany

Genus

Chinese Perfume Plant

Species

Mapunyao

Planting and Growing of Mapunyao

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Mapunyao?

Aglaia mariannensis requires approximately 250 ml of water per session. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged, adhering to a moist yet well-drained principle. The aim is to maintain consistent moisture without allowing the plant to sit in water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Mapunyao? ›

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Mapunyao? ›

How to save an overwatered Mapunyao? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Mapunyao?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 2-6 hours daily

Aglaia mariannensis thrives in partial sunlight, ideally receiving 2-6 hours of soft sunlight daily. This balance ensures healthy foliage, vibrant leaf pigmentation, and consistent growth patterns.

What is the best light condition for Aglaia mariannensis? ›

How can you ensure Aglaia mariannensis gets its ideal light? ›

What are the benefits of optimal lighting for Aglaia mariannensis? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Mapunyao?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Aglaia mariannensis is between 68°F and 77°F. This range ensures optimal growth, enabling the plant to maintain healthy cellular functions and photosynthesis rates. Within this range, the plant thrives with balanced humidity and light exposure, leading to lush foliage and robust growth. Maintaining these temperatures aids in preventing stress and potential diseases, allowing the plant to flourish in a controlled environment.

What Soil is Best for Mapunyao?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Aglaia mariannensis thrives best in well-drained soils that prevent root waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other water-related issues. A well-drained soil supports healthy root development and robust growth. Rich, loamy soils that supply essential nutrients are ideal. This type of soil ensures that the plant receives a steady supply of nutrients necessary for its growth and flowering, promoting vibrant foliage and fruit production. While drainage is crucial, the soil should also retain some moisture to keep the plant hydrated. This balance helps maintain consistent moisture levels, supporting sustained plant growth and reducing stress.

How to Fertilize Mapunyao?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Aglaia mariannensis benefits from moderate fertilizer application. For liquid fertilizer, dilute the solution to half the recommended strength on the package. For slow-release fertilizers, use about 50 grams spread evenly over the soil surface. Ensure not to exceed these amounts to avoid nutrient burn.

How to Prune Mapunyao?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by inspecting the plant for any dead or damaged branches. Use sharp pruning shears to cut these back to healthy growth. Focus on maintaining the natural shape by removing any awkwardly placed branches. Aim to create an open structure that allows for sunlight penetration and air circulation. Make clean cuts near a bud or a leaf node, angling the cut slightly to prevent water from pooling on the cut surface. Regular pruning also helps control the plant size, promoting a more compact and aesthetically pleasing form. Aglaia mariannensis benefits from shaping to maintain its ornamental appeal. Trim away excess growth from the ends of branches to maintain a desirable size. Cut at a 45-degree angle to a bud facing outward, encouraging the plant to grow in a desired direction. Shaping should be gentle and take into consideration the plant's natural form to avoid over-pruning, which can stress the plant. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Mapunyao plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early summer

Select healthy, semi-hardwood sections of the plant during spring or early summer. Cut each stem at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area for rooting, ensuring each cutting has at least two leaves.

Collect seeds from mature Aglaia mariannensis fruits. Clean off any pulp and soak the seeds in water overnight to hasten germination. Seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and kept consistently moist.

For both seed and cutting propagation, use a mixture of peat and sand as the growing medium. Insert the cuttings into this mixture or sow the seeds beneath a thin layer of soil, ensuring consistent, moderate moisture.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Mapunyao plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Aglaia mariannensis should be repotted when you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes or the soil doesn't retain moisture as well. Also, if the plant appears stunted despite optimal care, it's a good indicator that repotting is needed. Typically, repot in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. It should have good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A slightly larger pot helps provide the roots with more space to grow but ensures the plant doesn't have too much soil that retains excess moisture.

Select a well-draining potting mix that includes components like perlite or pumice. These materials enhance aeration and drainage, preventing the roots from sitting in water. This type of soil closely mimics the plant's natural habitat, promoting healthier and stronger growth.