Also known as Bee-Still Tree · Exile Tree · Ginje
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Be-still tree (Cascabela thevetia) is a beautiful, evergreen shrub or small tree native to tropical America, known for its showy, trumpet-shaped yellow flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Moderate, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
50% intensity
Avoid waterlogged soil, especially in cooler months.
Well-drained, sandy loam
50% intensity
Warm conditions preferred.
75% intensity
Ideal temperatures range from 18-27°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate feeding during growing season.
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted, from spring through summer. Do not fertilize in fall and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic, especially the seeds and fruit. Contains cardiac glycosides which can cause severe poisoning.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering, as the Be-still tree is susceptible to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during winter months when the plant is dormant to prevent waterlogged conditions and potential fungal issues.
Prune to shape the tree and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinch back young shoots to promote a more compact form.
Major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate from seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds require scarification or soaking before sowing.
Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood in summer and treated with rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining medium.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Be-Still Tree (Cascabela thevetia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Cascabela |
| Species | Cascabela thevetia |
Similar in genus Cascabela
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
