Also known as Australian-Chestnut · Beantree · Black Bean Tree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Castanospermum is a striking evergreen tree native to Australia, known for its vibrant orange-red pea-like flowers and large, woody seed pods.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
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 are toxic. Contains saponins and cyanogenic glycosides.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly in winter, allowing the soil to dry more thoroughly to prevent root rot.
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. Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth.
Propagate from large, fresh seeds sown in well-draining potting mix. Seeds should be sown with the pointed end down and lightly covered. Germination can take several weeks to months.
Root cuttings are also possible but less common.
Repot young plants annually or every two years in spring as they become root-bound. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently, every 3-4 years.
Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Castanospermum (Castanospermum australe)
Where Castanospermum (Castanospermum australe) 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 | Castanospermum |
| Species | Castanospermum australe |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
