Cerbera inflata Plant Care

Cerbera inflata (Cerbera inflata) belongs to the Apocynaceae family within the Cerbera genus. Cerbera inflata is native to northeast Queensland, specifically the Atherton Tableland and adjacent areas.

Cerbera inflata displays a small tree or shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 ft tall with a spread of approximately 4 ft. Cerbera inflata produces small white fragrant flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Cerbera inflata 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.

Cerbera inflata thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Cerbera inflata tolerates temperatures of 65–85°F. Cerbera inflata prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Cerbera inflata to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Cerbera inflata 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 full sun to partial shade and well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Cerbera inflata 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.

Cerbera inflata can spread to about 4 ft (1.2 m) and reach about 6 ft (2 m) tall. Space plants about 4 ft (1.2 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 tree spacing calculator.

Prune Cerbera inflata 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.

Cerbera inflata 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.

Cerbera inflata can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to yellow bird's eye plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Cerbera inflata is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, 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.

Cerbera inflata grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Cerbera inflata is native to northeast Queensland, specifically the Atherton Tableland and adjacent areas. In cooler regions, grow Cerbera inflata as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.