Indian Aloewood: complete guide

Overview

Aquilaria malaccensis, known as Indian Aloewood or Agarwood tree, is an extraordinarily special and precious plant from the Thymelaeaceae family. This tropical masterpiece is renowned for its intensely fragrant, dark resinous wood.

Appearance & Bloom

Aquilaria malaccensis is a medium-sized tree reaching 20-40 meters in tropical conditions. Leaves are elliptic, glossy green, approximately 5-12 cm long. Flowers are inconspicuous: small, yellow-green florets.

Ideal Location

Aquilaria malaccensis is a tropical plant requiring warmth and humidity. In temperate climates, it thrives best in a warm greenhouse with temperatures never below 15-18 degrees Celsius.

Soil

Aquilaria thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Use a mixture of peat, leaf mold, and perlite for container cultivation.

Watering

During the growing season, water regularly. Soil should be moister than for many other plants. During winter, reduce watering.

Pruning

Pruning in container cultivation helps maintain shape. Pinch back branch tips in early spring.

Maintenance Calendar

Feb-March: Light pruning. Begin feeding. April-May: Active growth. Water regularly and mist. June-August: Summer growth. September-October: Growth slows. November-January: Winter dormancy.

Winter Hardiness

Aquilaria malaccensis is not winter-hardy in temperate climates. It cannot survive outdoors in northern Europe.

Companion Planting

In greenhouse conditions, it combines nicely with other tropical plants.

Closing

Aquilaria malaccensis is for serious plant collectors a true treasure. It requires special care, warmth, and humidity.