Sea poison tree - Barringtonia asiatica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Sea poison tree

Also known as: Fish poison tree

Sea poison tree, or Barringtonia asiatica, is an ornamental tree with box-shaped fruit. The trees are native to the mangroves of the Indian Ocean and the fruit is carried on the ocean currents. All parts of this tree are poisonous.

Scientific classification

Species

Sea poison tree (Barringtonia asiatica)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

6 m to 20 m

Plant Height

6 m to 8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

13 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Images of Sea poison tree

Distribution of Sea poison tree

Distribution Map

Sea poison tree is native to coastal regions across Asia and the Pacific, thriving in a wide array of island and mainland environments. This species has been cultivated in various places, enhancing its global presence. Although introduced to certain areas in the Caribbean, sea poison tree remains on the margins of potential invasiveness, sometimes thought to have an impact on local ecosystems, but widespread disruption has not been documented.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Sandy beach

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Sea poison tree

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from coastal areas, sea poison tree prefers consistent moisture and has moderate drought tolerance, thriving in higher humidity. Water once every 2-3 weeks while avoiding over-saturation. Its salt spray resilience makes sea poison tree ideal for seaside landscaping, benefiting from natural rainfall outdoors.

Fertilize: For sea poison tree, use a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio bi-monthly during growing seasons. Apply a quarter-strength water-soluble formula when dormant. Water after feeding to avoid root damage, and adjust application based on rainfall and soil drainage to prevent fertilizer issues.

Pruning: Sea poison tree features large, glossy leaves and fragrant flowers. Prune from early to late winter, removing dead or overcrowded branches for air circulation. This dormant pruning minimizes stress, encourages spring growth, and enhances flowering while reducing pest risks.

Propagation: Sea poison tree thrives in coastal areas and propagates well by sowing ripe seeds. Clean seeds to prevent fungal growth and sow in well-draining, sandy soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide bright light while protecting seedlings from direct sunlight initially.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free