Mallotus apelta, the white-backed leaf, is a flowering plant in the spurge family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is known for its ornamental potential.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct, harsh sun.
Consistent
50% intensity
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average Room
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts.
Monthly
50% intensity
Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically during the growing season. Reduce watering in cooler months to prevent waterlogging.
Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, as this species prefers consistently moist but not saturated soil.
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinching back young shoots can encourage bushier growth. This helps maintain plant health and a desirable form.
Propagate by taking stem cuttings in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid location until roots develop.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, ideally in spring. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excessive moisture retention.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of White-Backed Leaf (Mallotus apelta)
Where White-Backed Leaf (Mallotus apelta) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Mallotus |
| Species | Mallotus apelta |
Similar in genus Mallotus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
