The autograph tree (Clusia rosea) might be one of the most interesting houseplants you’ve never heard of. This ultra-trendy tree from the tropics is starting to appear at nurseries and garden shops around the country, and it’s certainly worth looking for if you’re looking for a lush, green houseplant that’s incredibly easy to care for.
Autograph tree
The capacity to customize the signature trees, as the name indicates, is its most distinguishing feature. You may carve your name or initials into one of its thick, leathery leaves, and the writing will remain even as the leaf grows larger.
It also has a good, full form, with symmetrically extending leaves and branches from a strong center stalk.
The stiff, leathery dark green or olive-colored leaves of the signature tree grow to be around eight inches long. The leaves are robust enough to be carved, giving rise to the widespread name “autograph tree.” It has tall flower heads that bloom in the summer with pink or white blooms, followed by little green fruits that develop to black and crack apart to expose brilliant red seeds. Birds and other wildlife find the seeds appealing. The signature tree is a popular indoor plant but you can grow it in spring or fall.
Autograph tree propagation
The autograph tree may be propagated quite simply from stem cuttings, which is the preferred technique. As its seeds are not readily available for purchase.
- Cut a few strong stems about 4 to 6 inches long, right below the buds, with sharp pruners.
- Remove the cut end of its leaf stalks. Ensure that the top has at least two healthy leaves.
- Fill a one-gallon container halfway with potting soil. Poke a hole in the dirt for each cutting using a pencil or a stick. Place one-third of the stem on the earth. Water thoroughly until the soil is equally moistened.
- Keep the pot in a warm, wet location and water it often to prevent it from drying out.
- The appearance of new growth indicates that the incision has grown roots. If both cuttings have rooted, maintain the more robust one and clip the weaker one at ground level (do not pull it out, or you risk ruining the soft roots of the other plant).
- If you wish to plant the autograph tree in the landscape, leave it in the container until it is at least 12 inches tall.
Note: The speed of plant growth can affect due to soil type, light, & temperature. It is not uncommon for a tree to increase by 12 inches every year in an outside setting.
Temperature and humidity
Autograph trees grow in greenhouse-like environments with room temperatures ranging from 60° to 85° F and high humidity levels. Keep plants away from chilly draughts and from temperatures below 50°, F. Avoid placement near heating or cooling vents as well. Keep your plant hydrated in dryer sections of the house by using a humidifier, sprinkling the leaves on a regular basis, or placing the pot on a shallow tray filled with stones and water.
Light requirements
Clusia rosea/ Autograph tree needs medium to brilliant indirect light, it might be from an east- or west-facing window, or that is placed back from a south-facing window. Providing too much direct sunlight might cause the leaves to burn.
Soil and pot requirements
If you want autograph plants’ fast growth go for the ideal soil that is sandy, soft, loose, and well-draining. It should be fertile & organically rich. Grow in a container that is 2- to 4- inches deeper and wider than the root ball and has enough drainage holes. Allowing the roots to extend will result in quicker, more robust development. Your plant’s growth can be slow if it becomes rootbound.
Fertilizer Autograph tree
Fertilize your garden three times a year, in the spring, summer, and fall. Use granular organic fertilizer. Alternatively, you can fertilize more often with a well-balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Follow the quantity specified on the product label.
Watering Autograph tree
For the first year, until the plant is well established, the autograph tree should be watered on a regular basis. After that, you may reduce its watering, yet frequent watering will help it grow more completely. This plant is drought-tolerant, although it should never be allowed to dry out entirely.
When planted as a houseplant, it should be watered once a week in the summer and three times a month in the winter.
Important Note: Being a plant lover check out Easiest succulents to propagate quickly along with many other low-maintained plants.
