Perfume flower tree (Fagraea ceilanica)

Also known as: Ceylon boxwood

The perfume flower tree (Fagraea ceilanica) has glossy, leather-like leaves that are pleasing to the touch. Its flowers bloom at night, adding to its unique charm. Native to tropical forests in Australia and Asia, its fruits attract a variety of animals such as flying foxes, cassowaries, and civets.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Perfume flower tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

10 m

Spread

40 cm to 70 cm

Leaf Color

Deep green

Flower Size

6 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

White

Images of Perfume flower tree

Quickly Identify Perfume flower tree

Fagraea ceilanica can be identified by its shiny, deep green leaves that are elliptical in shape. The flowers are typically white and fragrant, with a tubular structure. The fruit is a small, yellowish berry that turns dark when ripe.

Scientific Classification of Perfume flower tree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Family

Gentian

Genus

Fagraea

Species

Perfume flower tree

Planting and Growing of Perfume flower tree

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

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 Perfume flower tree?

For Fagraea ceilanica, ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water until moisture is visible at the soil surface. The plant prefers consistent moisture levels.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Perfume flower tree? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Perfume flower tree? ›

How to save an overwatered Perfume flower tree? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Perfume flower tree?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours

For optimal growth, provide partial sun—filtered or dappled light mimicking forest understory conditions. Ideal light ensures sufficient energy for growth and blossoming while preventing the stress from harsh, direct rays.

What is the best light for Fagraea ceilanica? ›

How can you achieve ideal lighting for Fagraea ceilanica? ›

What benefits does Fagraea ceilanica gain from ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Perfume flower tree?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

For Fagraea ceilanica, maintaining temperatures between 70°F and 85°F is crucial for optimal growth. This range supports adequate photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, facilitating healthy foliage and blooms.

What Soil is Best for Perfume flower tree?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Fagraea ceilanica thrives in well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging, which can otherwise lead to root rot. Ensuring good drainage helps the roots breathe and maximizes nutrient uptake, promoting healthy growth. This plant benefits from soils rich in organic matter, which provide essential nutrients and enhance soil structure. A nutrient-rich soil environment supports robust plant health, encouraging vibrant blooms. The soil should retain a moderate level of moisture, crucial for consistent hydration without saturation. This balance is vital for maintaining sustained plant vitality and preventing stress during dry periods.

How to Fertilize Perfume flower tree?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Fagraea ceilanica, it is crucial to apply a balanced fertilizer to support its lush foliage and flowering potential. Each application should ideally provide enough nutrients to enhance growth but avoid over-fertilization. Typically, use about a quarter to half strength of a general-purpose fertilizer solution to mitigate risks of nutrient burnout.

How to Prune Perfume flower tree?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

While it's important to maintain shape, over-pruning can stress the plant, leading to reduced flowering and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases. Aim to remove only up to one-third of the plant's foliage at any one time. Prune just before new growth begins for best results. Early spring pruning helps control shape and size before the growing season, while late summer or early autumn pruning can avoid stimulating late growth that might not mature before winter. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Perfume flower tree plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Summer

For both seed and cutting propagation, a well-draining soil or medium is critical. Mix equal parts of sand, peat moss, and perlite to create a suitable environment for root growth.

Scatter the seeds evenly on the prepared soil in the seed tray. Cover them lightly with soil, and mist with water to keep the surface moist but not waterlogged.

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut a 4-6 inch section just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a couple of leaves at the top.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Perfume flower tree plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Fagraea ceilanica signals it needs repotting when roots emerge from the drainage holes or the growth seems stunted. Spring and autumn are ideal times because the plant is naturally more resilient and can adjust better to the new environment.

Select a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to prevent excessive moisture retention which can lead to root rot. A pot with drainage holes is crucial as it helps excess water to escape, preventing over-watering.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. This aids in providing essential nutrients and maintaining adequate moisture without waterlogging, thus fostering healthy root development and growth.