Shaving brush tree (Pseudobombax ellipticum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Shaving brush tree on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Malvaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Shaving brush tree
The Pseudobombax ellipticum, commonly known as the 'shaving-brush-tree', is a deciduous ornamental tree native to Mexico and Central America. It stands out for its large, showy white or pink flowers with long stamens resembling a shaving brush, which appear before the leaves in winter or early spring. It is ideal as a specimen tree in tropical and subtropical gardens, or in large containers in colder climates for protection.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and well-drained soil, preferably sandy or sandy loam. Watering should be moderate during the growing season, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings, and drastically reduced in winter when the tree is dormant. A common mistake is overwatering during the dormant period, which can lead to root rot. Protect from severe cold, as it is not frost-tolerant.
How to save a dying Shaving brush tree
- Warning signs
- Yellow or dropping leaves, soft or wrinkled trunk, no new growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage and watering. Reduce watering if soft. Increase if wrinkled.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or lack of light. Does not tolerate cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the trunk is not completely soft and you correct the issue promptly.