Metopium brownei (also known as chechem, chechen, or black poisonwood) is a species of plant in the family Anacardiaceae.
Browne's poisonwood is resistant to disease and is generally unlikely to develop illnesses. As for care, the plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they finish blooming. Browne's poisonwood is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand extensive gardening experience.
How to keep Metopium Brownei.
Light
Browne's poisonwood is native to open habitats, like sunny meadows and forest margins, which offer plenty of light. It does best in Full Sun but can tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to different sunlight conditions.
Temperature
Browne's poisonwood comes from tropical areas, where conditions are generally warm and humid. Consequently, it is adapted to high heat and moisture. It does not tolerate abrupt temperature shifts and favors a steady thermal environment, so indoor temperature swings should be avoided. The plant generally cannot withstand cold and needs warmer conditions to grow. If temperatures fall too far, growth may stop and the plant can die.
Fertilizer
Fertilization is essential to the care of Browne's poisonwood. Consistent feeding during the growing season preserves the energy required for its showy foliage and encourages overall growth. If left unfed, the plant can develop unhealthy leaves, lose ornamental appeal, and produce stunted or weak growth that is liable to break.
Pruning
Browne's poisonwood contains toxic sap, so it must be handled with care. The best time to prune this plant is in early spring, concentrating on removing dead or diseased branches and improving air circulation. This practice promotes the plant's health and reduces the risk of disease. Always wear gloves when handling the plant to protect yourself from potential skin irritation caused by the sap.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Metopium
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 14.94 m to 24.99 m
- Mature Spread
- 7.92 m to 11.89 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- Colombia, Belize, Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, Jamaica
