Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 inches of potting mix feel dry, then let excess water drain. Check frequently during hot weather and reduce watering in winter; never leave pots standing in water.
Size
6-10 ft tall × 3-5 ft wide
Habit
Upright tree – single-trunk
Toxicity
Toxic — Pets & Humans
Description
A tropical evergreen with large, thick, glossy leaves in deep burgundy-green to nearly black tones. Best grown indoors or in movable containers in Phoenix; not reliably winter-hardy outdoors in Zone 9b.
Toxic to pets & humans if ingested; milky sap irritates skin and eyes
Care Instructions
Light: Bright, indirect light or filtered outdoor shade. Protect from intense Phoenix afternoon sun and reflected heat; acclimate gradually to gentle morning sun.
Water: Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 inches of potting mix feel dry, then let excess water drain. Check frequently during hot weather and reduce watering in winter; never leave pots standing in water.
Soil: Well-drained, aerated potting mix amended with perlite or fine orchid bark. Avoid heavy soil and containers without drainage holes.
Mature size: Typically 6–10 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide indoors, depending on pruning and container size. Can become a much larger tree in frost-free climates.
Bloom: Rarely flowers indoors or in containers; grown primarily for foliage rather than blooms.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen; may drop leaves following cold exposure, watering stress, or abrupt environmental changes.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast with warmth and bright indirect light; slower in low light or winter.