Lalaha (Planchonella obovata)

Also known as: Synsepalum obovatum, Sideroxylon obovatum

The berries of this plant are dark and oval-shaped, measuring around 1.2 cm in length when ripe. Inside each berry, there are several oval seeds. The berries are typically smooth and firm.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Lalaha

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

40 m

Spread

6 to 10 meters

Leaf Color

Glossy green

Flower Size

6 mm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Lalaha

Quickly Identify Lalaha

Planchonella obovata can be identified by its obovate leaves, usually measuring between 5-10 cm in length. The leaves are glossy and have a pronounced midrib. The flowers are small, white to yellowish in color, and grow in clusters.

Scientific Classification of Lalaha

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ericales

Family

Sapodilla

Genus

Planchonella

Species

Lalaha

Planting and Growing of Lalaha

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 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 Lalaha?

For Planchonella obovata, a moderate watering approach is ideal. Ensure that each watering session provides approximately 250 milliliters of water. The key principle is to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water until the water starts to seep out of the drainage holes, indicating the soil has absorbed enough moisture.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Lalaha? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Lalaha? ›

How to save an overwatered Lalaha? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Lalaha?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4-8 hours per day

For optimal growth, Planchonella obovata benefits from an ideal light range of partial to full sun, encouraging vigorous growth, vibrant foliage, and increased photosynthetic efficiency.

How much sunlight does Planchonella obovata ideally need? ›

What solutions exist to achieve ideal light conditions? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Lalaha?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

Planchonella obovata thrives best within a temperature range of 70°F to 85°F. This range ensures optimal growth and health for the plant, allowing it to flourish without the stress from extreme temperatures.

What Soil is Best for Lalaha?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Planchonella obovata thrives in well-draining soil conditions. This ensures that the roots are not sitting in water, which can lead to root rot and other moisture-related issues. Well-draining soil promotes healthy root development and ensures the plant receives adequate oxygen. This plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter, which provides essential nutrients for growth and development. Organic matter breaks down slowly, releasing nutrients over time, ensuring the plant has a steady supply of what it needs to flourish. The soil should ideally remain slightly moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering combined with good drainage maintains the perfect moisture balance, encouraging lush foliage and robust growth.

How to Fertilize Lalaha?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Planchonella obovata, it's important to use the right amount of fertilizer. In case of liquid fertilizer, apply approximately 200ml per plant per application. When using slow-release fertilizer, use about 50 grams per plant, ensuring it is evenly spread around the base without directly touching the stem.

How to Prune Lalaha?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by removing any unhealthy branches using clean, sharp tools. Trim back to healthy wood. Next, shape the plant by cutting back overgrown areas, allowing light and air to reach inner leaves. Make cuts at 45-degree angles just above a node to encourage new growth. While pruning, always follow the plant’s natural growth pattern. Avoid excessive cutting which can harm the plant’s overall health. Keep some longer branches in the center to maintain its natural canopy. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Lalaha plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring, Early summer

Start by collecting mature seeds from the Planchonella obovata. Clean them thoroughly and soak them in water for 24 hours to improve germination rates by softening the seed coat.

Fill propagation trays with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1-2 times their diameter. Mist the surface lightly to ensure they are moistened without becoming waterlogged.

Select healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings. Trim them to 4-6 inches in length, ensuring each has at least one node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.

How to Repot Lalaha plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Observe for signals like roots growing out of the drainage holes, water not being absorbed properly, or slow growth. These indicate that Planchonella obovata requires a new pot with more room to expand.

Select a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes. This allows room for growth while preventing waterlogging, crucial for the plant's health.

Opt for a well-draining, organic-rich soil to ensure adequate moisture retention without waterlogging, thereby promoting strong root development and overall plant health.

Toxicity

Ingestion

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.