Axinandra zeylanica Plant Care

Axinandra zeylanica (Axinandra zeylanica) belongs to the Crypteroniaceae family within the Axinandra genus. Axinandra zeylanica is native to Sri Lanka. Axinandra zeylanica is also known as Ceylon False Aralia.

Axinandra zeylanica displays a tall, upright tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 ft tall with a spread of approximately 8 ft. Axinandra zeylanica produces small, inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Axinandra zeylanica every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established trees mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

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

Axinandra zeylanica tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Axinandra zeylanica prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Axinandra zeylanica to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Axinandra zeylanica every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established trees 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 rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Axinandra zeylanica is suited to USDA Zone 13b – 12b.

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

Axinandra zeylanica can spread to about 8 ft (2.4 m) and reach about 15 ft (5 m) tall. Space plants about 8 ft (2.4 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 tree spacing calculator.

Prune Axinandra zeylanica 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 tree in one year.

Axinandra zeylanica 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.

Axinandra zeylanica can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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Axinandra zeylanica is susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites. 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.

Axinandra zeylanica grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Axinandra zeylanica is native to Sri Lanka. In cooler regions, grow Axinandra zeylanica as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.