Burmese rosewood (Pterocarpus indicus)

Also known as: Pterocarpus, Philippine mahogany

The national flower of Myanmar is the Padauk (Pterocarpus indicus). This tropical deciduous tree, native to Asia, typically reaches heights of 24 to 30 meters. It thrives in environments free from drought and frost. Valued for its attractive wood, the Padauk also serves as a beneficial shade tree that enhances soil quality by addressing nutrient deficiencies.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Burmese rosewood

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

30 m

Spread

4 m

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

6 cm to 13 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Burmese rosewood

Quickly Identify Burmese rosewood

Pterocarpus indicus can be identified by its pinnate leaves which are alternate with 5 to 11 leaflets, bright yellow flowers that are fragrant and arranged in panicles, and winged seeds. The bark is grayish-brown and fibrous.

Scientific Classification of Burmese rosewood

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Padauk

Species

Burmese rosewood

Planting and Growing of Burmese rosewood

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

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 Burmese rosewood?

Pterocarpus indicus prefers a moderate watering schedule. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. The rule of thumb is to water until the top inch of soil feels consistently damp. The amount may vary slightly depending on climate and season, but around 500 ml should generally suffice.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Burmese rosewood? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Burmese rosewood? ›

How to save an overwatered Burmese rosewood? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Burmese rosewood?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

The plant benefits most from full to partial sun exposure. Ideal light ensures vigorous growth and vibrant coloration.

What are the ideal light conditions? ›

How to achieve these ideal lighting conditions? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Burmese rosewood?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

The ideal temperature range for Pterocarpus indicus is crucial for optimal growth and development. Maintaining a consistent temperature between 68°F and 86°F ensures that the plant's physiological processes, such as photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, are not compromised. Fluctuations outside this range may slow down growth or initiate stress responses.

What Soil is Best for Burmese rosewood?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Pterocarpus indicus thrives best in soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. This type of soil encourages healthy growth and vibrant foliage, ensuring the plant reaches its full potential. The plant requires soil that offers excellent drainage to prevent root rot. It facilitates oxygenation of the roots and wards off diseases caused by waterlogging. While Pterocarpus indicus enjoys well-draining soil, it also appreciates soil that can retain some moisture. Balancing these needs helps maintain consistent hydration for the plant.

How to Fertilize Burmese rosewood?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Pterocarpus indicus, moderate amounts of fertilizer are ideal. Use about 100 grams of granular fertilizer per tree every four months. If using a liquid fertilizer, mix 10 milliliters per liter of water and apply evenly around the root zone.

How to Prune Burmese rosewood?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by cleaning your pruning tools to prevent disease transmission. Identify dead, damaged, or diseased limbs and remove them first, cutting back to healthy wood or the main stem. Trim any branches that cross or rub against each other, as these can cause damage over time. Shape the tree to maintain an open canopy for better air circulation and sunlight penetration, cutting back to a growth node to encourage further growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Burmese rosewood plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring

Select healthy cuttings from mature plants. The cuttings should be about 8-10 inches long and free of any disease symptoms, such as spots or lesions on the leaves.

Prepare a well-draining potting mixture. A mix of peat and perlite is often recommended for promoting drainage and aeration, essential for rooting cuttings.

Dip the cutting ends into rooting hormone and plant them in the prepared potting medium. Water the cuttings lightly and cover them with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Burmese rosewood plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Pterocarpus indicus signals it's time for repotting when roots start emerging from the drainage holes, and the soil appears hard and compacted. Another indication is the slowed growth or yellowing leaves, which show it's time for a change.

Select a pot that is around 2-3 inches larger than the current one. A pot size increase of this extent allows room for root expansion, fostering healthier growth. Ensure the pot has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Use a loamy, well-draining soil mix that retains enough moisture yet drains efficiently. This kind of soil supports proper root aeration and prevents root rot, crucial for the plant's robust growth.