Harrisonia perforata Plant Care

Harrisonia perforata (Harrisonia perforata) belongs to the Rutaceae family within the Harrisonia genus.

Harrisonia perforata displays a low spreading ground cover growth habit, reaching up to 15 ft tall with a spread of approximately 8 ft. Harrisonia perforata produces small inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Harrisonia perforata 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.

Harrisonia perforata thrives in partial to full shade. The optimal light range is 1,000–3,000 lux. Avoid placing Harrisonia perforata in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Harrisonia perforata tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Harrisonia perforata prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining sandy soil mix with peat moss and perlite. Good drainage is essential for Harrisonia perforata to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Harrisonia perforata 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 to full shade and well-draining sandy soil mix with peat moss and perlite. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Harrisonia perforata 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.

Harrisonia perforata can spread to about 8 ft (2.4 m) and reach about 15 ft (5 m) tall. Space plants about 8 ft (2.4 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 Harrisonia perforata 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.

Harrisonia perforata 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.

Harrisonia perforata can be propagated through spores, division of rhizomes.

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Harrisonia perforata is susceptible to mealybugs, 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.

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