Water
Water regularly, especially when young. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in cooler months. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which this species is susceptible to.
Also known as Asbestos-Tree · Axe-Handle-Wood · Grey Handlewood
Axe handle Wood (Aphananthe philippinensis) is a medium-sized tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its durable timber.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers bright light but can tolerate some shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry between waterings, reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during growing season with balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially when young. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in cooler months. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which this species is susceptible to.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time for structural pruning is during late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Light shaping can be done in summer.
Propagation is typically done from seeds, which require stratification. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer. Ensure sterile conditions and appropriate rooting hormones for successful propagation.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years, and mature trees less frequently, as needed. Choose a well-draining potting mix. Repot in early spring before the active growing season commences to minimize stress.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Axe Handle Wood (Aphananthe philippinensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cannabaceae |
| Genus | Aphananthe |
| Species | Aphananthe philippinensis |
Similar in genus Aphananthe
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
