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How to Take Care of a Lucky Bean Plant

The lucky bean plant (Castanospermum australe) is a hardy tree that is native to parts of Australia. It is also frequently called the Moreton Bay chestnut tree or the black bean tree. The tree, which features glossy green leaves and bright red and yellow flowers, is often grown as an indoor plant, where containers keep it small. In the wild, however, the lucky bean plant can become a tree with a height of 130 feet.

Choose the right location for your lucky bean plant. If planting outside in the ground, plant it well away from any underground power or water lines, as the root system is extensive. Also consider the wide canopy of the mature tree. Although slow growing, in time this plant will provide a large amount of shade, making it a good choice for planting near patios or in areas that do not have shade.

  • The lucky bean plant (Castanospermum australe) is a hardy tree that is native to parts of Australia.
  • Although slow growing, in time this plant will provide a large amount of shade, making it a good choice for planting near patios or in areas that do not have shade.

Plant your lucky bean plant in rich, well-draining soil. Although these trees are found in the rain forest in the wild, standing water can lead to root rot and is best avoided. Any potting soil rich in organic material will work for container plants.

Expose your Castanospermum australe to plenty of sunlight. While the plant will tolerate light shade, it grows best in full sunlight, which is defined as a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day and preferably eight hours.

Water your lucky bean plant well during the growing season. The soil should always be moist.

  • Plant your lucky bean plant in rich, well-draining soil.
  • Water your lucky bean plant well during the growing season.

Fertilize potted lucky bean plants with a slow-release, balanced (10-10-10), water- soluble fertilizer at the start of the growing season.

Tips Of The Leaves On My Lucky Bean Plant Are Brown

Many types of insects regularly feed on foliage, causing a variety of damage. Wash the soapy mix off the foliage after a few hours to prevent soap scum buildup on the foliage. Lucky bean plants prefer moist but not wet soil. Check the soil regularly to be sure it isn't soggy, which indicates over-watering or poor drainage. If the brown on the leaf tip begins to spread throughout the leaf, leaf scorch may be the culprit. Provide some afternoon shade during the hottest part of the summer, and make sure the plant is getting enough moisture. Mulching around the lucky bean's stem can help keep the roots cool and conserve moisture. Spray all parts of indoor or outdoor trees to the point of runoff. Repeat every 7 to 14 days until the disease is gone.

  • Fertilize potted lucky bean plants with a slow-release, balanced (10-10-10), water- soluble fertilizer at the start of the growing season.
  • Wash the soapy mix off the foliage after a few hours to prevent soap scum buildup on the foliage.

Warning

Keep the plant away from pets and children, as the leaves and seeds are toxic.

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