Johnstonalia axilliflora Plant Care

Johnstonalia axilliflora (Johnstonalia axilliflora) belongs to the Rhamnaceae family within the Johnstonalia genus.

Johnstonalia axilliflora displays a compact, spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 4 ft. Johnstonalia axilliflora produces small clusters of fragrant white flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Johnstonalia axilliflora every 7–14 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.

Johnstonalia axilliflora thrives in partial to full sun.

Johnstonalia axilliflora tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Johnstonalia axilliflora prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Johnstonalia axilliflora to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Johnstonalia axilliflora 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 sandy loam with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Johnstonalia axilliflora 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.

Johnstonalia axilliflora 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 Johnstonalia axilliflora 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.

Johnstonalia axilliflora 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.

Johnstonalia axilliflora can be propagated through softwood cuttings, air layering.

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

Johnstonalia axilliflora 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.

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