Astronium graveolens
Astronium graveolens · Anacardiaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around astronium graveolens and prepare for winter.
ID card
- English name
- Stinking wood, Black wood
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (small white-greenish flowers)
- Adult size
- 15 to 25 m in height
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Tropical (freezes at 0 °C)
- Origin
- Central and South America
- Soil type
- Well-drained, moderately fertile
Care
Watering
Water regularly during growth and flowering periods, keeping the soil moist but without excess water that causes rot. Reduce watering during the dry season or dormancy. An established tree in open ground tolerates drought periods better.
Light exposure
Place your plant in full sun or partial shade for optimal fruiting and development. Generous light promotes branching and flowering. Protect from strong winds that damage branches.
Soil and drainage
Prefer deep, well-drained soil that is moderately fertile. Avoid waterlogging that weakens roots. Adding organic matter improves soil structure and useful water retention.
Pruning and training
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain balanced shape and remove dead wood. Remove branches that cross or restrict crown aeration. Late pruning during active growth season minimizes injury.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to support growth. Moderate applications if soil is naturally fertile. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pests and diseases
This tree is generally robust but can be affected by fungi in very humid and poorly ventilated conditions. Watch for scale insects and mites in warm climates. Ensure good air circulation and adequate drainage to prevent fungal infections.
Did you know?
Astronium graveolens gets its English name "stinking wood" from the very unpleasant odor released by its wood and crushed leaves. This timber was once widely used in fine woodworking for its exceptional hardness and beautiful grain, particularly for crafting precious furniture in Latin America. Despite its unpleasant aroma, this tree plays an important ecological role in tropical dry forests, where it provides food and shelter for local wildlife.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Mastic treePistacia lentiscus
- Staghorn sumacRhus typhina
- Smoke treeCotinus coggygria
- Peruvian peppertreeSchinus molle
- Chinese pistachePistacia chinensis
- PistachioPistacia vera
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.