Water
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during cooler months, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Dynamite Tree · Monkey Dinner Bell · Monkey Dinnerbell
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Sandbox Tree (Hura crepitans) is a fast-growing, large tropical tree known for its explosive seed pods and sharp spines.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some direct sun if acclimated.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Reduce in cooler months.
Well-drained
50% intensity
High
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
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. The fruit capsules explode when ripe, scattering seeds violently. The sap contains irritant compounds.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during cooler months, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and size, and to remove any dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Wear protective gloves due to the irritating sap.
Propagate from seeds, which require scarification or soaking before planting. Cuttings can also be taken from mature plants, but rooting can be challenging. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repot young plants annually or biennially in the spring. Mature trees can be repotted less frequently, typically every 2-3 years. Use a larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sandbox Tree (Hura crepitans)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Hura |
| Species | Hura crepitans |
Similar in genus Hura
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
