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Evergreen Ash (Cojoba arborea var. angustifolia)

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Evergreen Ash

Intermediate

Cojoba arborea var. angustifolia

Delicate pinnate leaves with charming nyctinastic movement (closing at night). Bright green foliage creates natural atmosphere.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
10〜30℃
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
50cm-2m (potted)
Humidity
50〜70%

About

Evergreen ash (Cojoba arborea, formerly Pithecellobium confertum) is an evergreen tree in the family Fabaceae, native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Its finely divided pinnate leaves give it a light, feathery appearance, and the plant is notable for its nyctinastic leaf movements — leaves fold closed each evening and reopen in the morning, adding a captivating sense of life to indoor spaces. It prefers bright indirect light and is highly sensitive to drought; the soil should be watered as soon as the surface dries, as leaf tip browning and defoliation follow quickly from water stress. High humidity is beneficial, and regular misting helps maintain healthy foliage. Fast-growing indoors, reaching 0.5–2 m. Its combination of delicate texture and daily leaf movement makes it a unique and beloved houseplant.

Lifespan of the Evergreen Ash

The Evergreen Ash lives 10+ years.

Size of the Evergreen Ash

The Evergreen Ash grows to 50cm-2m (potted).

Temperature & humidity for the Evergreen Ash

The ideal temperature for the Evergreen Ash is 10〜30℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Central and South America

Lifespan

10+ years

Size

50cm-2m (potted)

Temperature

10〜30℃

Humidity

50〜70%

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

Prefers bright indirect light. It likes humidity, so mist in dry rooms and keep it out of direct air-conditioner drafts.

Watering

Sensitive to drought. Water as soon as surface dries

Temperature & Overwintering

Ideal range is 10-30°C. Keep it indoors above 10°C in winter and never let it dry out, or leaf tips brown and leaves drop.

Pruning & Shaping

It grows fast, reaching 0.5-2 m indoors, so prune overlong branches regularly to keep its shape.

Soil & Repotting

Use a mix that drains yet holds moisture. It grows fast and becomes rootbound quickly, so repot one size up once roots fill the pot.

Pests & Cautions

When dry, leaf tips brown and leaves drop. The leaves folding up at night is normal sleep movement, not a sign of disease.

Sleep movementNaturalDelicate leavesFast growing

Evergreen Ash FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Evergreen Ash?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Evergreen Ash?
A

The ideal temperature for Evergreen Ash is 10〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Evergreen Ash?
A

The average lifespan of Evergreen Ash is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Evergreen Ash get?
A

The mature size of Evergreen Ash is 50cm-2m (potted). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Evergreen Ash?
A

The price of Evergreen Ash varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Cojoba arborea var. angustifolia (L.) Britton & Rose

Synonyms: Pithecellobium arboreum (L.) Urb., Mimosa arborea L.

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).

Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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