The Story
Plant Bio
Barringtonia asiatica is a large evergreen tree native to the sandy beaches and mangrove forest edges of northern Australia. The species develops a dense, broad-spreading crown and often becomes multi-trunked or decumbent with age.
The foliage consists of massive, glossy, obovate leaves held in terminal rosettes, with new growth emerging in striking bronze-red tones. Showy night-blooming flowers feature a dense brush of long, pink-tipped stamens that fall to the ground the following morning.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
984 inches
Width
590 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Northern Australia
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; sap can cause skin irritation
Bloom period
Summer – Autumn
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun with deep, well-drained sandy or organic-rich soil.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring no roots are bound.
- Position the tree, backfill with native soil, and water thoroughly to settle the roots.
- Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk.
Pro Tip
Site this tree strictly in large open areas well away from paths, as the heavy daily drop of spent flowers and large, woody, four-angled fruits creates a significant maintenance and tripping hazard.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in a spacious, open area with plenty of room for canopy expansion.
- Ensure the soil is well-drained, even if subject to periodic high water tables.
- Protect young trees from any potential cold drafts or frost.
Don't
- Do not plant near pedestrian paths, driveways, or swimming pools where falling debris creates hazards.
- Do not prune heavily into old, bare wood, as recovery is poor.
- Do not allow pets or livestock to chew on the fallen seeds or bark.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fish Poison Tree questions
What zones can Fish Poison Tree grow in?
Fish Poison Tree is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Fish Poison Tree bloom?
Fish Poison Tree typically blooms in summer through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fish Poison Tree need full sun?
Fish Poison Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Fish Poison Tree drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fish Poison Tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Fish Poison Tree with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.