Keeping a chestnut as a houseplant may sound unusual, but it makes perfect sense when it comes to the Australian chestnut. Because this plant is neither related to the chestnut or horse chestnut nor is it really hardy.
How do I care for an Australian chestnut as a houseplant?
The Australian chestnut as a houseplant requires a bright to partially shaded location, regular watering without waterlogging, fertilization during the growth phase and occasional repotting. Caution: The leaves are poisonous to pets.
Botanically speaking, the Australian chestnut belongs to the Fabaceae (legume) family. Its fruits resemble oversized beans, which explains the name (black) bean tree, under which this plant is also traded. In its homeland, this chestnut is often planted as a park or shade tree.
The best location for the Australian chestnut
The Australian chestnut feels really comfortable at room temperature, but it is not well suited to the home garden. But never place this plant in a dark corner of the room, it needs a lot of light. It thrives best on a bright windowsill, but it also tolerates partial shade.
Water and fertilize the Australian chestnut properly
From spring to autumn, your Australian chestnut needs a lot of water. It should be watered regularly and not too little. However, be sure to avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot and dried leaves. The upper layer of soil can dry out a little between each watering, but completely drying out of the soil is damaging.
During the growth phase, provide the Australian chestnut with a commercially available liquid fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon) about every two to three weeks. If you are a rather forgetful plant lover, you can also use long-term fertilizer, for example in the form of fertilizer sticks.
Cutting and repotting the Australian chestnut
If your Australian chestnut is still quite young, it can be repotted once a year; later this will only be necessary every two to three years. This plant does not need regular pruning. If it gets too big for you, then you are welcome to grab a knife and prune your Australian chestnut.
Important tips in brief:
- choose a bright, partially shaded location
- water regularly and abundantly
- Prevent waterlogging and drying out
- fertilize regularly during the growth phase
Tip
The saponin leaves of the Australian chestnut are poisonous to many pets. You should definitely keep this in mind when choosing a location.
