Dendropanax laurifolius Plant Care

Dendropanax laurifolius (Dendropanax laurifolius) belongs to the Araliaceae family within the Dendropanax genus. Dendropanax laurifolius is native to moist regions of forests at middle or high elevations.

Dendropanax laurifolius displays a tall, upright tree growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 5 ft. Dendropanax laurifolius produces small, inconspicuous flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 8 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Dendropanax laurifolius 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.

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

Dendropanax laurifolius tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Dendropanax laurifolius prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Rich, well-draining soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Dendropanax laurifolius to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Dendropanax laurifolius 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 added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Dendropanax laurifolius is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

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.

Dendropanax laurifolius can spread to about 5 ft (1.5 m) and reach about 10 ft (3 m) tall. Space plants about 5 ft (1.5 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 Dendropanax laurifolius 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.

Dendropanax laurifolius 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.

Dendropanax laurifolius can be propagated through stem cuttings, air layering.

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

Dendropanax laurifolius is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects. 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.

Dendropanax laurifolius grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Dendropanax laurifolius is native to moist regions of forests at middle or high elevations. In cooler regions, grow Dendropanax laurifolius as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.