Lepidothamnus fonkii Plant Care

Lepidothamnus fonkii (Lepidothamnus fonkii) belongs to the Podocarpaceae family within the Lepidothamnus genus. Lepidothamnus fonkii is native to Argentina and Chile.

Lepidothamnus fonkii displays a slow-growing coniferous tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 ft tall with a spread of approximately 10 ft. Lepidothamnus fonkii produces small inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 1 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Lepidothamnus fonkii 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.

Lepidothamnus fonkii thrives in partial to full shade. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Lepidothamnus fonkii in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Lepidothamnus fonkii tolerates temperatures of 50–75°F. Lepidothamnus fonkii prefers humidity levels of 50–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining acidic soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Lepidothamnus fonkii to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Lepidothamnus fonkii every 8 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 acidic soil with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Lepidothamnus fonkii is suited to USDA Zone 12a.

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.

Lepidothamnus fonkii 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 Lepidothamnus fonkii 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.

Lepidothamnus fonkii is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 12). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Lepidothamnus fonkii can be propagated through seeds, cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to lepidothamnus intermedius plant care, which shares the same genus.

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

Lepidothamnus fonkii is susceptible to 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.

Lepidothamnus fonkii grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Lepidothamnus fonkii is native to Argentina and Chile. In cooler regions, grow Lepidothamnus fonkii as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.