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Helicteres Isora (Helicteres isora)

East Indian screw tree (Helicteres isora) is a shrub or small tree known for its unique spirally twisted fruit pods and medicinal properties. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.

Watering

Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Soil

Well-draining soil, adaptable to various types including sandy or loamy.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures between 20-30°C.

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.

Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.

Water

Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Reduce watering in cooler months.

Soil

Well-draining soil, adaptable to various types including sandy or loamy.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures between 20-30°C.

Protect from frost; bring indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Avoid over-fertilizing.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Category

Medicinal, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

2-5 m

Spread

1.5-3 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

None

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Simple

Flower Size

2-3 cm

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Jul
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths87
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JunPeak fruit · Jul
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths87
Synonyms
Helicteres chrysocalyx Miq. ex Mast.
Helicteres grewiifolia DC.
Helicteres macrophylla Wight
Helicteres roxburghii G.Don
Isora corylifolia Schott & Endl.
Ixora versicolor Hassk.
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderMalvales
  • familyMalvaceae
  • genusHelicteres
  • speciesHelicteres isora
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

No significant toxicity reported for humans or pets.

Additional Care Tips

Water consistently, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering during winter dormancy.

Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth. Light pruning can be done after flowering to maintain size.

Easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken during summer. Seeds may require scarification or soaking before sowing.

Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.

FAQs

What is the common name for Helicteres isora?

The most common name for Helicteres isora is the East Indian screw tree, due to its distinctive spirally twisted fruit pods.

How often should I water Helicteres isora?

Water regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Does Helicteres isora need special soil?

No, it prefers well-draining soil but is adaptable to various types, including sandy and loamy soils. Good drainage is key.

When is the best time to prune Helicteres isora?

The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps shape the plant and encourages a bushier habit.

Is Helicteres isora poisonous to pets or humans?

Helicteres isora is not considered poisonous to pets or humans. It is even used in traditional medicine.