Apodanthes caseariae Plant Care

Apodanthes caseariae (Apodanthes caseariae) belongs to the Apodanthaceae family within the Apodanthes genus. Apodanthes caseariae is native to Central America and northern South America.

Apodanthes caseariae displays a low rosette, clumping growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 0.5 ft. Apodanthes caseariae produces small inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Apodanthes caseariae every 10–14 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Apodanthes caseariae thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Apodanthes caseariae in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Apodanthes caseariae tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Apodanthes caseariae prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining sandy soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Apodanthes caseariae to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Apodanthes caseariae every 8 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and well-draining sandy soil with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Apodanthes caseariae is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Apodanthes caseariae can spread to about 1 ft (0.2 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 1 ft (0.2 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Apodanthes caseariae while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Apodanthes caseariae is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Apodanthes caseariae can be propagated through seeds.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Apodanthes caseariae is susceptible to not prone to common pests. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Apodanthes caseariae grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Apodanthes caseariae is native to Central America and northern South America. In cooler regions, grow Apodanthes caseariae as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.