Autograph Plant

Clusia rosea ‘Princess’ is easy to grow and a fabulous tropical plant. The large, flat leaves are dark green and have the ability to scar over without affecting the rest of the plant, accounting for its popular name Autograph plant. Clusia is also known by the names Balsam Apple and Pitch Apple, although the fruit it produces is toxic to both humans and animals.This tropical plant has a sturdy tree-like form that can quickly reach up to 25 feet tall in its native habitat of Southern Florida, Northern Mexico, and the Caribbean. When grown as a houseplant, Autograph plant rarely surpasses 8-10 feet tall and can be kept shorter with regular pruning. Best Locations For Growing the Autograph PlantAutograph plants make great floor specimens for the corner of a living room, dining room, or bedroom. This tropical plant tolerates average humidity levels, although the plant will appreciate being placed well away from drafty windows and doors as well as heating and cooling vents. Clusia is not a delicate plant and rarely loses leaves if moved to a different location in the house. Autograph Plant Sunlight RequirementsThe bright indirect light of a west or east-facing window is perfect for maintaining the deep green of the foliage and vigorous growth habit. A north-facing window with medium light levels can all work, but keep an eye on the frequency of watering. Plants growing in low-light conditions typically require less watering. Autograph Plant CareAutograph plants should be repotted regularly. When the roots begin to show from the bottom of the container, move the plant to a larger pot. Make sure the bottom of the pot has excellent drainage, and use a saucer or cache pot that can be emptied after watering. This plant will naturally lose leaves from the bottom as it ages. Remove any spent plant material from the pot to reduce the risk of pests and disease. Autograph plants grown in bright light or outdoors for the summer months may bloom with gorgeous pink flowers that can be as large as 3 inches across. Autograph plants growing outdoors require part or dappled shade and will not tolerate nighttime temperatures below 50 degrees F (10C).Watering Autograph PlantWater only when the soil has dried to prevent too much moisture around the root ball. Thoroughly soak the potting mix and allow it to drain well. Weekly waterings during the spring and summer are typically sufficient. Reduce watering during the winter months or if the plant is placed in a lower-light location. Average humidity levels are acceptable, although spraying the plant with a fine mist sprayer every few days will help the foliage stay hydrated. Feeding Autograph PlantAn all-purpose, slow-release houseplant fertilizer applied three times a year will support the rapid growth of this tropical tree. Applications in early spring, early summer, and late summer are ideal. Apply the feed as a top dressing to the pot following the manufacturer’s instructions. Always water the plant well after fertilizing.Autograph Plant InformationLight Exposure: Bright Indirect LightMature Height: 3 – 5 feetMature Spread: 2 – 4 feetHabit: Spreading, UprightFlower Color(s): NoneFoliage Color(s): Dark Green Or Olive GreenWatering: Dry, Once A WeekFeatures: Low Maintenance, Fast Growing, Air PurifierCommon Name: Autograph PlantOther Name(s): Autograph Tree, Copey, Cupey, Balsam AppleScientific Name: Clusia Rosea Princess