Breviea sericea Plant Care

Breviea sericea (Breviea sericea) belongs to the Sapotaceae family within the Breviea genus.

Breviea sericea displays a slow-growing small tree growth habit, reaching up to 6 ft tall with a spread of approximately 3 ft. Breviea sericea produces small white fragrant flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Breviea sericea every 7–14 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.

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

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

Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Breviea sericea to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Breviea sericea 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 well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Breviea sericea is suited to USDA Zone 13b.

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.

Breviea sericea can spread to about 3 ft (0.9 m) and reach about 6 ft (2 m) tall. Space plants about 3 ft (0.9 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 Breviea sericea 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.

Breviea sericea 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.

Breviea sericea can be propagated through seeds, air layering.

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

Breviea sericea is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, mealybugs. 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.

Breviea sericea grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. In cooler regions, grow Breviea sericea as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.