Barringtonia asiatica, commonly known as the Fish Poison/Sea Poison Tree or Box Fruit Tree, is a tropical mangrove species often noted for its large, showy flowers, bright red emergent leaves and distinctive box-like fruit. Although it is typically a large coastal tree, its young specimens can be grown indoors as a unique, decorative foliage plant if conditions are controlled properly. The tree features glossy, lance-shaped leaves with wavy margins that emerge light green before darkening as they mature.
Native to
This species is native to tropical coastlines of the Indo-Pacific region, from eastern Africa and Madagascar to Southeast Asia and northern Australia. It thrives in sandy, well-draining soils near the ocean, often growing as part of the mangrove ecosystem where it benefits from salt-tolerant adaptations.
Water
Watering should mimic the plant’s natural preference for regular moisture. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Use a well-draining potting mix with sand or grit to help replicate the sandy coastal conditions it prefers. Indoor specimens may benefit from occasional misting or higher humidity conditions
Light
Bright, indirect light is essential for Barringtonia asiatica. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but strong midday sun may scorch the leaves. Place near a bright window with filtered light for best results.
Humidity
High humidity is beneficial, ideally above 60%. It can tolerate lower levels, but growth may slow, and leaf edges could brown if the air is too dry. A humidifier or regular misting can help maintain appropriate humidity levels indoors.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. It is sensitive to cold and should be kept away from draughts or temperatures below 15°C. This plant is suited to stable indoor conditions and does not tolerate frost, making it unsuitable for outdoor cultivation in temperate climates.
Please note, this plant is growing out of the seed of it's fruit. This is not a caudex. Over time this will be used up and fall off/or need removing.
