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Screw-Nut Tree (Helicteres guazumifolia)

Helicteres guazumifolia, the Screw-nut tree, is a tropical shrub or small tree known for its twisted, spiraled seedpods, resembling screws. It features attractive pink fl

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Watering

Moderate

Soil

Well-drained

Temperature

Warm

Fertilizer

Low

Care Requirements

Light

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.

Watering

Moderate

Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.

Soil

Well-drained

Temperature

Warm

Prefers temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.

Fertilizing

Low

Fertilize sparingly during the growing season only.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Category

Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Garden

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Height

3m - 7m

Spread

2m - 4m

Growth Rate

Medium

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Simple

Optimal Sunlight Lux

60000

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JunPeak fruit · Mar
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths99
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Oct
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths99
Synonyms
Helicteres biflora Sessé & Moc.
Helicteres carpinifolia C.Presl
Helicteres mexicana Kunth
Helicteres retinophylla R.E.Fr.
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderMalvales
  • familyMalvaceae
  • genusHelicteres
  • speciesHelicteres guazumifolia
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

Additional Care Tips

Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, as Helicteres guazumifolia is susceptible to root rot.

Prune to shape the plant and remove any dead or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done anytime to maintain desired size and form. Heavy pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Propagate from seeds sown in spring or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require scarification or stratification for better germination. Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining medium.

Repot young plants annually or biennially, and mature plants every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring before the start of active growth. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.

FAQs

What are the light requirements for Helicteres guazumifolia?

Helicteres guazumifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, indirect light or a location that receives at least several hours of direct sunlight per day.

What type of soil is best for the Screw-nut tree?

This plant prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they do not remain waterlogged.

How often should Helicteres guazumifolia be watered?

Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Is Helicteres guazumifolia suitable for container growing?

Yes, Helicteres guazumifolia can be grown in containers, provided the pot has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the root system. Regular repotting may be necessary.

What is the typical mature size of Helicteres guazumifolia?

Helicteres guazumifolia typically grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 2 to 6 meters (approximately 6.5 to 20 feet).