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What Are the Different Types of Clusia Plant

Updated: April 13, 2022

Clusia plants are a popular choice for indoor or outdoor decoration due to their unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. These plants are native to the Caribbean and South America and are known for their thick, glossy leaves and colorful flowers. In this article, we will discuss the different types of Clusia plant.

Clusia Rosea

Clusia Rosea, also known as Autograph Tree, is a popular variety of Clusia plant due to its unique feature of allowing you to write on its leaves with a sharp object. The tree grows up to 25 feet tall in its natural habitat and produces pink or white flowers. It has broad, elliptical leaves that are around 6 inches long, and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.

Clusia Guttifera

Clusia Guttifera, also known as Small Leaf Clusia, is another popular type of Clusia plant. It is a tropical evergreen shrub that grows up to 10 feet tall in its natural habitat. Its leaves are small and round, around 2-3 inches in diameter, and its flowers are small, white or pink.

Clusia Major

Clusia Major, also known as Pitch Apple or Balsam Apple, is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall in its natural habitat. The tree produces large waxy leaves that can reach up to 12 inches in length and 7 inches in width. It produces small white flowers that develop into apple-like fruits. This type of Clusia plant is suitable for outdoor planting only.

Clusia Fluminensis

Clusia Fluminensis, also known as Fluminense Clusia or Dwarf Clusia, is a slow-growing variety of Clusia plant that is commonly used in landscaping. It grows up to 6 feet tall and has thick, glossy leaves that are around 4-5 inches long. Its flowers are small and white. This type of Clusia plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors.

Clusia Lanceolata

Clusia Lanceolata, also known as Narrow Leaf Clusia, is a slow-growing variety of Clusia plant that can grow up to 8 feet tall in its natural habitat. It produces narrow leaves that are around 2-3 inches long and has small white flowers. This type of Clusia plant is suitable for outdoor planting only.

Clusia Nana

Clusia Nana, also known as Dwarf Clusia or Miniature Autograph Tree, is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are broad and elliptical, around 2 inches long, and it produces small white flowers. This type of Clusia plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors.

How to Care for Your Clusia Plant

Clusia plants are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for your Clusia plant:

  • Light: Clusia plants require bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.
  • Watering: Water your Clusia plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater as it can lead to root rot.
  • Humidity: Clusia plants prefer high humidity levels. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves with water or placing a tray of water near the plant.
  • Fertilizer: Feed your Clusia plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
  • Pruning: Prune your Clusia plant to maintain its shape and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.

FAQ

Can Clusia plants be grown in pots?

Yes, most types of Clusia plants can be grown in pots as long as they have proper drainage.

Do Clusia plants require a lot of water?

No, Clusia plants do not require a lot of water. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can Clusia plants tolerate direct sunlight?

No, Clusia plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn their leaves.

How often should I fertilize my Clusia plant?

Feed your Clusia plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Can I write on the leaves of all Clusia plant varieties?

No, only Clusia Rosea (Autograph Tree) allows you to write on its leaves with a sharp object.