Also known as Ashoka Tree · Buddha Tree · Cemetery-Tree
False Ashoka (Polyalthia longifolia) is an attractive, fast-growing evergreen tree with a slender, columnar habit, often used for screening and as an ornamental.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade, but direct intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Polyalthia longifolia prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage in the pot and avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially in hot weather.
Pruning Polyalthia longifolia is primarily for shaping and maintaining its characteristic columnar form. Trim back any stray branches or those that disrupt the symmetrical outline.
Light pruning can be done year-round, but heavier shaping is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to encourage dense foliage.
Polyalthia longifolia is typically propagated by seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown fresh and kept moist in a warm, well-draining medium.
Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in summer, treated with rooting hormone, and placed in a humid environment with bottom heat to encourage root formation.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years, and mature plants every 2-3 years, or when they become root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one with excellent drainage.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of potting soil, perlite, and sand. Repot in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of False Ashoka (Polyalthia longifolia)
Where False Ashoka (Polyalthia longifolia) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Polyalthia |
| Species | Polyalthia longifolia |
Similar in genus Polyalthia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
