Autograph tree (Clusia rosea)

Also known as: Pitch -apple, Balsam apple

The autograph tree (Clusia rosea), native to tropical America, is unique in its ability to absorb carbon dioxide at night, similar to pineapples and jade plants. This plant, known for its tough leaves, allows people to carve messages or names into them. Interestingly, it often grows on other plants, sometimes overwhelming them.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Autograph tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub, Tree

Plant Height

7 m to 20 m

Spread

15 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

White Pink

Images of Autograph tree

Quickly Identify Autograph tree

Clusia rosea can be identified by its large, oblong, dark green leaves that are thick and leathery. The plant produces large, white or pinkish flowers, and the fruits are green, turning black when ripe, with a star-shaped opening. The distinctive autograph-like marks on the leaves can also help in identifying the species.

Scientific Classification of Autograph tree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Mangosteen

Genus

Attorneys

Species

Autograph tree

Planting and Growing of Autograph tree

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

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 Autograph tree?

For Clusia rosea, the watering amount should be sufficient to thoroughly moisten the soil while avoiding waterlogging. Ideally, pour around 250 ml of water each time, ensuring the soil retains enough moisture without becoming soggy. It is crucial to adapt the amount of water according to the season and the plant’s environment to ensure optimal growth.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Autograph tree? ›

What should I do if my Autograph tree is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Autograph tree? ›

How to save an overwatered Autograph tree? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Autograph tree?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours daily

Clusia rosea prefers partial sun; ideally, its lush foliage benefits from four to six hours of light daily. This ensures robust growth, vivid foliage, and optimal photosynthesis efficiency.

What is the best lighting condition for Clusia rosea? ›

How to ensure Clusia rosea gets ideal lighting? ›

Benefits of ideal lighting for Clusia rosea? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Autograph tree?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

The ideal temperature range for Clusia rosea is between 65°F and 80°F. This range allows the plant to thrive with optimal growth and development. Maintaining this temperature provides an environment similar to its native tropical habitat, ensuring healthy foliage and proper physiological processes.

What Soil is Best for Autograph tree?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Clusia rosea thrives in soil that provides excellent drainage, preventing waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Ensuring the soil drains well is crucial for the plant’s overall health and vibrant growth. It benefits from soil with a moderate amount of organic matter. This provides essential nutrients that support its glossy leaves and robust growth. While it needs good drainage, the soil should also retain some moisture. This balance helps the roots stay hydrated without being overly saturated, promoting healthy development. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Autograph tree?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Clusia rosea prefers a balanced fertilizer at half the recommended strength. For liquid fertilizers, mix at a ratio of 1:2 with water, and for slow-release granules, apply according to the packaging but divided into three equal parts per year. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Autograph tree?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

When trimming your Clusia rosea, be gentle with new shoots as they can be tender. Make sure not to remove too much at once, to avoid stressing the plant. After pruning, ensure that the Clusia rosea receives appropriate sunlight. Newly pruned plants might need more sunlight for recovery while maintaining their vibrant green foliage. Post-pruning is a crucial time to check for pests and diseases as cuts can be points of entry. Keep an eye on the plant's health in the weeks following pruning and address issues promptly. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Autograph tree plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring,Early spring,Summer

Seed collection should be done when the fruits are fully ripe. Harvest seeds carefully to avoid damaging them and clean them thoroughly before sowing to remove any fruit residue.

Select healthy, disease-free branches and cut them into 4-6 inch segments. Remove any leaves from the bottom half and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development.

Seeds should be sown in a mix of peat and sand, lightly covered, and misted regularly to keep them moist. Ensure good ventilation and indirect sunlight for optimal germination conditions.

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How to Repot Autograph tree plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two to three years

Clusia rosea typically signals its need for repotting when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or if the plant appears root-bound. The best time to repot Clusia rosea is when it starts showing these signs during the growth seasons of spring or summer.

When selecting a pot for Clusia rosea, opt for one that is slightly larger than its current container to allow root growth. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, aiding in root health and preventing rot.

Choose a well-draining potting mix when repotting your Clusia rosea. A good potting mix contains materials like peat, perlite, and pine bark. This mix supports aeration, drainage, and moisture retention, ensuring a balanced environment for the roots.

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Toxicity of Autograph tree

Is Autograph tree toxic to cat?

The Autograph tree presents a danger to cat health due to its poisonous characteristics. If felines inadvertently consume any parts of this plant, particularly the fruits and leaves, they may suffer from poisoning. Upon ingestion, a cat could exhibit various signs of physical discomfort. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly consult a veterinarian at a nearby animal hospital to alleviate the impact of the toxic exposure and safeguard the affected cat's health.

Is Autograph tree toxic to dog?

The autograph tree is known to be toxic to dogs. These canines may experience poisoning from this plant if they accidentally consume it, a situation that can easily arise due to their inquisitive nature and inclination to chew on various items. The parts of the autograph tree that are particularly hazardous include both its fruits and leaves. Should a dog ingest these parts, it may show signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more severe symptoms, depending on the quantity ingested. It is imperative for dog owners to keep a vigilant eye on their pets and restrict their access to the autograph tree. If poisoning is suspected, it is vital to seek immediate veterinary assistance to secure the best possible outcome for the affected dog.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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