Also known as Blackboard Tree · Chatim · Deviltree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Indian Devil Tree (Alstonia scholaris) is a large evergreen tree native to tropical Asia. Known for its medicinal properties and use in traditional practices.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for best growth, but can tolerate partial shade.
Regular watering
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch to dry between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm temperatures
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Light feeding
25% intensity
Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic if ingested. Contains milky sap which can be irritating.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Alstonia scholaris prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering during cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings to prevent root rot. Avoid waterlogging.
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead or damaged branches, and manage its size. Pinch back new growth to encourage a bushier form.
Pruning can be done anytime, but major structural pruning is best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Alstonia scholaris can be propagated by seeds, which require stratification and are best sown in spring. It can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood, typically rooted in moist, well-draining medium under humid conditions.
Young trees benefit from repotting every 1-2 years in spring to replenish soil and provide more space for root growth. Mature trees require less frequent repotting, perhaps every 3-5 years, or when root-bound.
Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Indian Devil Tree (Alstonia scholaris)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Alstonia |
| Species | Alstonia scholaris |
Similar in genus Alstonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
