Radermachera sinica (rad-er-MACH-er-a SIN-i-ca) is a beautiful evergreen perennial that is relatively easy to maintain.
Native to China and Taiwan, Radermachera sinica was initially grown as a subtropical plant in mountainous areas. However, it is primarily grown as a houseplant in the United States.
Because of its subtropical origins, Radermachera sinica fares well outdoors in Zones 10 to 12.
Radermachera sinica is named after Dutch botanist J.C.M. Radermacher after researching plants growing in the area.
Gardeners love this plant because it’s light and airy (not dense like some plants) and is easy to take care of.
The glossy plant seems indecisive about whether it wants to be a soothing tropical houseplant or a fast-growing tree outside.
The Radermachera sinica can be both, depending on what you want and how you grow it.
Radermachera sinica also goes by several common names, including:
- China doll plant
- Serpent tree
- Emerald tree
- Asian bell tree
Quick Facts On Radermachera Sinica
- Family: Bignoniaceae
- Light: Bright indirect light
- Temperature: 60° to 70° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Water weekly in the summer
- Fertilizer: Liquid fertilizer monthly in the summer
- Propagation: Seed or cuttings
- Common Problems: Aphids, spider mites, limp or pale leaves
Radermachera Sinica Care
What Does The China Doll Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The China Doll plant is known for its lovely green color and airy appearance. The stems are not densely populated with leaves, so they appear very light.
The leaves grow in pairs and have a glossy appearance, which is one of the primary reasons gardeners like this plant.
The stem starts out green when the plant is young but often turns grey as Radermachera sinica matures.
While it can grow up to 25′ to 30 ‘ feet in its native habitat, the China Doll plant will only grow indoors to 4′ to 6’ feet.
When Does The China Doll Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
If grown indoors, the China Doll plant will rarely bloom.
However, the plant often blooms during maturity when planted outdoors.
During the summer, Radermachera sinica may bloom with large white-yellow flowers, but the blooms only last for one day. While the plant has a short-lived bloom, the flowers are fragrant.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The China Doll plant needs bright, indirect light. But, like many plants, it doesn’t do well with direct sunlight, as that can burn the leaves.
If keeping it indoors, it’s best to place it in a pot near a window with bright dappled light.
If outdoors, the plant thrives in similar bright conditions.
The China Doll plant needs mild summer temperatures of about 70° degrees Fahrenheit and winter temperatures of 60° degrees Fahrenheit.
Because of these temperature requirements, Radermachera sinica does best outdoors in zones 11 and 12.
Otherwise, it’s happiest as an indoor plant where you can control temperature.
How And When To Water And Fertilize The China Doll Plant?
To mimic the subtropical plant’s native home, you may want to water it weekly during the summer. During the winter, however, you can lower it to twice a month.
The China Doll plant does well with a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly feeding in the summer, but it’s not necessary to feed in the winter.
What Is The Best Soil For Radermachera Sinica, And When Should You Transplant?
The China Doll plant thrives in moist but well-draining soil. You can use a standard potting mix and add perlite or sand to encourage drainage.
It’s best to transplant Radermachera sinica in the spring, but it doesn’t need to be done annually.
The plant is sensitive to changes in temperature and environment, so repotting every 2 to 3 years is best.
Repotting every few years gives the plant fresh nutrients without disturbing its environment too often.
Does Radermachera Sinica Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
The China Doll plant is relatively low-maintenance and doesn’t require any special grooming.
However, if the plant has damaged or dead leaves, it’s best to remove them when you see them.
How To Propagate The Serpent Tree?
Unlike some plants that propagate best with stem cuttings, the Serpent Tree is best propagated by seed in the spring.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Place 2-3 seeds each in a small pot with moistened, well-draining soil.
- Put small pots in a warm environment with access to the bright, indirect sun.
- To ensure they have adequate humidity, you can place a tray of pea gravel with water under the plants or place a glass jar over them.
After about six weeks, the seeds will germinate.
However, please don’t rush to put them in their own pots, as it may take another month or two to get strong enough before transplanting.
Radermachera Sinica Pests And Diseases
Radermachera Sinica, also known as the Emerald Tree plant, is not susceptible to any particular diseases or pests.
Still, like any houseplant, it can be afflicted with the following pests:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
Thankfully, treatment is easy and effective, so the pests don’t usually harm the plant too much.
Often, neem oil can take care of the pests, but sometimes you may need an insecticide.
A lack of water usually causes limp leaves, so it’s important not to let your Emerald Tree plant’s soil dry out.
Lastly, if you are a cigarette smoker and notice leaves falling from your Emerald Tree plant, it’s likely caused by cigarette smoke. But, moving your plant to an area without smoke should solve the problem.
Suggested China Doll Plant Uses
China doll plant or Asian Bell Tree plant provides a natural tree form indoors. The shiny leaves grow in an open canopy that appears very airy and light.
However, in its native habitat, the Asian Bell Tree plant is an actual tree, growing up to 90′ feet.
In zones 11 or 12, the Asian Bell Tree plant can be grown in the landscape or a large patio planter, although it’s not likely to grow quite as tall as in its natural habitat.
However, most gardeners use the Asian Bell Tree plant as a tall decorative plant for a sunny spot indoors or on the deck during warm weather.
Young Asian Bell Tree plants are small, making them suitable decor for a desk, dining room table, or window sill.
As the plant matures, however, the Asian Bell Tree plant can fill empty corners or help cover blank walls.