Grow stick - Gliricidia sepium (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Grow stick

Also known as: Fence post tree, Aaron's rod

Grow stick (Gliricidia sepium) is native to tropical areas such as Mexico and Central America where the trees were traditionally used to provide shade for cocoa plantations. As it is a legume, it fixes nitrogen in the soil. It provides fodder, firewood, live fencing, and green manure, and it is an ingredient in rat poison.

Scientific classification

Species

Grow stick (Gliricidia sepium)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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

8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

Orange

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Red, Brown

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Grow stick

Distribution of Grow stick

Distribution Map

Grow stick is native to regions of Central and South America and has been successfully introduced to various other tropical and subtropical regions across the globe. It is cultivated in numerous areas within its introduced range, implying that grow stick is valued for its utility in such locales. While grow stick may be considered mildly invasive in certain areas, the extent of this characteristic is not definitive, and any potential impact on ecosystems is often managed. Overall, grow stick maintains a broad geographical presence, with its cultivation contributing to its distribution.

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

Disturbed sites, coastal sand dunes, river banks, floodplains, fallow land

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Grow stick

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Grow stick thrives in tropical-like conditions with consistent moisture and high humidity. Water every two weeks, tolerating brief dryness. Typically grown outdoors for adequate sunlight and rainwater, grow stick maintains consistent water needs year-round, unlike some species with seasonal fluctuations.

Fertilize: To promote healthy growth and flowering for grow stick, apply a balanced NPK fertilizer every 3-4 months, with increased frequency in spring and summer. Ensure soil moisture before fertilizing, distributing evenly while avoiding the stem. Adjust feeding based on plant size and age for optimal results.

Pruning: Grow stick is a fast-growing tree featuring bright pink flowers, flourishing with early spring pruning. Cut back weak branches above a node to enhance growth, air circulation, and sunlight exposure. Adjust pruning techniques based on local climate for optimal flowering and appearance.

Propagation: Grow stick is a fast-growing species ideal for propagation via cuttings. Utilizing semi-hardwood cuttings and rooting hormones in well-draining, moist soil enhances rooting success, allowing gardeners to consistently expand their grow stick cultivation.

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