Also known as Hongay Oil Tree · Indian Beech · Indian Beech Tree
Pongamia (Pongamia pinnata) is a fast-growing, medium-sized tree native to tropical Asia, prized for its shade, medicinal properties, and nitrogen-fixing abilities.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Water deeply when topsoil is dry, reduce in winter. Ensure good drainage.
Loamy, Sandy, Clay, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to Hot
75% intensity
Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. Protect from frost; minimum temperatures around 10°C are preferred.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light Feeding
25% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Pongamia pinnata prefers consistent moisture, especially when young. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in cooler months but avoid letting the soil become completely parched.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Pruning is primarily for shaping and removing dead or damaged branches. Minimal pruning is needed for established trees. If shaping is desired, do so in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the tree.
Pongamia pinnata can be propagated from seeds, which should be sown fresh. Cuttings can also be taken, but success rates can vary. Seedlings require warm conditions and consistent moisture to establish.
Grafting is another method for desired cultivars.
Young plants may require repotting every 1-2 years into a slightly larger container. Use a well-draining potting mix. Mature trees are best left in the ground and do not typically require repotting.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Pongamia (Pongamia pinnata)
Where Pongamia (Pongamia pinnata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pongamia |
| Species | Pongamia pinnata |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
