Dicraspidia donnell-smithii Plant Care

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii (Dicraspidia donnell-smithii) belongs to the Muntingiaceae family within the Dicraspidia genus.

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii displays a compact, spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 4 ft. Dicraspidia donnell-smithii produces small white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Dicraspidia donnell-smithii every 7–10 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.

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii thrives in partial to full sun.

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Dicraspidia donnell-smithii 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 Dicraspidia donnell-smithii to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Dicraspidia donnell-smithii every 6 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 partial to full sun and well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii 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.

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii can spread to about 4 ft (1.2 m) and reach about 3 ft (1 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 plant spacing calculator.

Prune Dicraspidia donnell-smithii 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.

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii 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.

Dicraspidia donnell-smithii can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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Dicraspidia donnell-smithii 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.

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