Its second name - indoor chestnut - castanospermum (Castanospermum australe) owes to the impressive cotyledons, which outwardly resemble chestnut fruits. It is from them that the shoots of this bizarre evergreen tree grow.
The country of origin of castanospermum is Australia. Due to its prominent seeds, it is often referred to as "black beans" there. The plant is found in moist forests off the continental coast. The only representative of this genus, southern castanospermum, is suitable for home cultivation. In nature, its growth can reach gigantic heights, but under indoor conditions, the size of the tree will be much more compact. You can grow it as a bonsai. Often, several of these "chestnuts" are planted in one pot.
Indoor chestnut belongs to the legume family. Like its other representatives, this tree is capable of consuming nitrogen from the atmosphere. Under the usual conditions at home, it pleases the eye with unusual bright red-orange colors for up to six months. Unfortunately, the pot culture does not bloom. Owners have to be content with exotic cotyledons and rich green shiny foliage.
But castanospermum is not suitable for every apartment. The leaves and fruits contain many toxic substances - saponins. Australian aborigines, however, are not afraid. After a special treatment that neutralizes the poison, such beans are even eaten. But in a home environment, it is better to place a pot with a plant only in a place inaccessible to small family members.
Castanospermum care at home
Location and lighting
Castanospermum grows in forests, so it needs moderate partial shade. Direct rays of the sun can cause the leaves to burn out. The eastern window will be optimal for growing. The north side may be too dark.
Temperature
Indoor chestnut prefers warmth. Ideal for him would be a room in which the temperature does not drop below 16 degrees, even in winter. In the summer, he will feel great at +23.
Watering
In summer, castanospermum needs abundant watering with lukewarm water. Stagnation of moisture at the roots is undesirable. If necessary, the plant can be additionally sprayed with standing cold water. In winter, the volume of irrigation is reduced, waiting for the soil to dry out.
The soil
For castanospermum, a fairly spacious and high pot is selected. A drainage layer is laid at the bottom. The soil optimal for indoor chestnut is light, loose and slightly acidic. You can cook it yourself. For planting, a mixture of equal shares of sand, turf, compost and leafy soil is suitable. It is recommended to add a handful of clay and broken brick to them. From the store options, soil for plants with decorative leaves or ficuses is suitable.
When planting, do not bury the "chestnut" entirely in the ground: it should protrude above the surface. It will be enough to bury about the 5th part of the fruit.
Top dressing
Castanospermum does not require too frequent feeding.During the period of active growth, until autumn, you can water the plant with organic fertilizers once every couple of weeks. Young specimens do not need fertilization as long as they draw strength from the cotyledons.
Transfer
As the tree grows, it draws the necessary substances from the cotyledonous chestnuts. When they are depleted, it is necessary to ensure that the plant is transplanted into a new, larger pot. During this procedure, it is worth remembering the powerful root system of the seedling so as not to harm it. The transplant is usually carried out in the spring. For a small plant, you will need to do this annually, adults can change the capacity less often - about once every 3 years.
Pruning
Formative pruning can also be done in the spring. In an adult tree, it is recommended to simply pinch the tops of the shoots so that they branch better.
Breeding methods for indoor chestnut
Although the plant does not bloom at home, the easiest way is to propagate castanospermum by seeds. "Chestnuts" ripen in pods. Each seed is quite weighty - up to 30 g. It is advisable to germinate them before planting. To begin with, the planting material is kept in warm water for a day. The temperature suitable for germination is 17-25 degrees.
Possible difficulties of growing
The health of a home chestnut can be judged by the state of the foliage. Dry leaf tips will indicate a lack of moisture in the air. Pale color - about a lack of light, summer yellowing of foliage - on the contrary, about excessive illumination. If the leaves wither and fall off during the dormant period, it is worth moving the pot with the plant to a warmer place. Slow growth indicates the need for top dressing.
Problems can be delivered by scale insects, thrips and other typical pests of indoor plantings. They are fought with the usual methods.
