Discospermum sphaerocarpum Plant Care

Discospermum sphaerocarpum (Discospermum sphaerocarpum) belongs to the Rubiaceae family within the Discospermum genus. Discospermum sphaerocarpum is native to India and Sri Lanka.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum displays a low spreading ground cover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Discospermum sphaerocarpum produces small white or pink star-shaped flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Discospermum sphaerocarpum every 4–7 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.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum thrives in partial shade to dappled sunlight. Avoid placing Discospermum sphaerocarpum in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Discospermum sphaerocarpum prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, acidic soil mix with added organic matter like peat moss and pine bark. Good drainage is essential for Discospermum sphaerocarpum to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Discospermum sphaerocarpum 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 shade to dappled sunlight and well-draining, acidic soil mix with added organic matter like peat moss and pine bark. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum 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.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 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 plant spacing calculator.

Prune Discospermum sphaerocarpum 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.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum 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.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum can be propagated through seeds, division of rhizomes. Similar propagation techniques also apply to discospermum philippinensis plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Discospermum sphaerocarpum is susceptible to aphids, 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.

Discospermum sphaerocarpum grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Discospermum sphaerocarpum is native to India and Sri Lanka. In cooler regions, grow Discospermum sphaerocarpum as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.