Also known as Seven Sisters' Fruit · Starred Waxing · Sterculia Shillinglawii
Chinese Chestnut (Sterculia monosperma) is a large tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its edible seeds and ornamental value, producing attractive flowers and fruits
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for optimal growth and flowering. Can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Allow top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 18-25°C. Protect from frost and extreme cold.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
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 Sterculia monosperma regularly, especially during its establishment phase and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Prune Sterculia monosperma to shape the tree, remove dead or crossing branches, and improve air circulation.
Light pruning can be done anytime, but major structural pruning is best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any suckers from the base.
Sterculia monosperma can be propagated from seeds, which should be sown fresh as they lose viability quickly. Scarification or soaking seeds may improve germination rates.
Grafting is also a viable method for propagating desired cultivars.
Repot young Sterculia monosperma plants every 1-2 years in spring. Mature trees generally do not require frequent repotting and can be left in place.
Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot that is only slightly larger than the current root ball.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Chestnut (Sterculia monosperma)
Where Chinese Chestnut (Sterculia monosperma) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sterculia |
| Species | Sterculia monosperma |
Similar in genus Sterculia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
