Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots, as this species is sensitive to overwatering.
Also known as Giant Sterculia · Hazel Sterculia · Indian-Almond
Java Olive (Sterculia foetida) is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to tropical Asia and Australia, known for its large, palmate leaves and foul-smelling flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Loamy, Sandy, Clay
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize during the growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots, as this species is sensitive to overwatering.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time for pruning is typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Sterculia foetida can tolerate moderate pruning.
Propagation is typically done by seeds, which require soaking before sowing. Cuttings can also be used but are generally more difficult to root.
Start seeds or cuttings in a well-draining medium and maintain consistent moisture and warmth.
Repot young plants annually or every two years, and mature plants every 3-4 years, preferably in spring. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current root ball to avoid overwatering issues.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Java Olive (Sterculia foetida)
Where Java Olive (Sterculia foetida) is found

Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sterculia |
| Species | Sterculia foetida |
Similar in genus Sterculia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data