As a member of the Meliaceae family, I, Aglaia odorata (commonly known as Chinese Perfume Tree), exhibit a growth pattern best described as a slow to moderately paced evergreen shrub or small tree. In my natural and cultivated settings, I do not rush. My growth is deliberate, focusing on developing a dense, rounded, multi-stemmed form with a full canopy. You will not see me shooting upwards rapidly like a pioneer species. Instead, my energy is invested in steady, sturdy growth, which contributes to my longevity and resilience in the landscape. My ultimate height, achieved over many years, typically ranges from 6 to 20 feet, with a similar spread, depending heavily on environmental conditions.
When provided with optimal conditions, my vertical growth can be expected to be between 6 to 12 inches per year. This is not a fixed guarantee but an average expectation. My horizontal spread, or the increase in my canopy's width, generally follows a similar pace. It is crucial to understand that this rate is not linear. As a young plant, soon after being established, I may exhibit slightly more vigorous growth. As I mature, my growth rate often slows further as I dedicate more resources to maintaining my structure, producing my fragrant yellow flowers, and developing my fruit.
My growth velocity is not solely intrinsic; it is profoundly shaped by my environment. Several factors dictate how close I get to my maximum annual growth potential:
Sunlight: I thrive in full sun to partial shade. More direct sunlight typically fuels more robust growth and better flowering, while heavy shade will significantly slow my development and make me leggy.
Temperature: I am tender to cold and flourish in USDA hardiness zones 10-11. I grow most actively in consistently warm temperatures. Cold snaps or frost will not only halt my growth but can cause severe damage, setting me back considerably.
Soil and Water: I prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Consistent moisture, especially during establishment and active growth periods, is beneficial. However, I am somewhat drought-tolerant once mature. Poor drainage or prolonged drought will stunt my growth.
Nutrition: While not a heavy feeder, an application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring can provide a boost to my annual growth, supporting the development of my dense foliage.
Understanding my growth rate is essential for your planning. I am not a plant for those seeking a quick screen or instant garden impact. I am a species for patient gardeners who appreciate a plant that develops gracefully over time. My slow growth means I require less frequent pruning to control my size, generally only needing light shaping to maintain my desired form. When you plant me, you should place me in a location where I have ample space to reach my mature width without constant intervention. My pace allows me to be an excellent candidate for containers, where my growth will be even more constrained and manageable.
