Also known as Candletree · Panama Candle Tree
Candle tree (Parmentiera cereifera) is a striking tropical tree with unique, waxy, white, cylindrical fruits resembling candles, reaching up to 1 meter long.
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 flowering and fruiting, but tolerates some shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter.
Well-drained, sandy loam
50% intensity
Warm to Moderate
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize during the growing season (spring/summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Monitor soil moisture closely during hot, dry periods.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This encourages bushier growth.
Easily propagated from seeds, which should be sown fresh and kept warm. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer. Ensure cuttings have a node and are planted in a well-draining medium.
Rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Repot young plants annually, and mature plants every 2-3 years, or when they become root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Spring is the ideal time for repotting, allowing the plant to establish before the main growing season. Water lightly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Candle Tree (Parmentiera cereifera)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Parmentiera |
| Species | Parmentiera cereifera |
Similar in genus Parmentiera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
