Dioicodendron dioicum Plant Care

Dioicodendron dioicum (Dioicodendron dioicum) belongs to the Rubiaceae family within the Dioicodendron genus.

Dioicodendron dioicum displays a tall, slender tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 ft tall with a spread of approximately 10 ft. Dioicodendron dioicum produces small, white fragrant flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Dioicodendron dioicum 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.

Dioicodendron dioicum thrives in partial shade to full sun.

Dioicodendron dioicum tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Dioicodendron dioicum 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 like compost or peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Dioicodendron dioicum to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Dioicodendron dioicum 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 partial shade to full sun and rich, well-draining soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Dioicodendron dioicum 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.

Dioicodendron dioicum can spread to about 10 ft (3 m) and reach about 30 ft (9 m) tall. Space plants about 10 ft (3 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 Dioicodendron dioicum 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.

Dioicodendron dioicum 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.

Dioicodendron dioicum can be propagated through softwood cuttings, air layering.

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

Dioicodendron dioicum 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.

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