Lettowianthus stellatus Plant Care

Lettowianthus stellatus (Lettowianthus stellatus) belongs to the Annonaceae family within the Lettowianthus genus. Lettowianthus stellatus is native to Kenya and Tanzania.

Lettowianthus stellatus displays a small tree or shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 ft tall with a spread of approximately 4 ft. Lettowianthus stellatus produces small, fragrant flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Lettowianthus stellatus 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.

Lettowianthus stellatus thrives in partial shade to full sun.

Lettowianthus stellatus tolerates temperatures of 65–85°F. Lettowianthus stellatus prefers humidity levels of 50–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Rich, well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Lettowianthus stellatus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Lettowianthus stellatus 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 loamy soil with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Lettowianthus stellatus 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.

Lettowianthus stellatus can spread to about 4 ft (1.2 m) and reach about 6 ft (2 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 tree spacing calculator.

Prune Lettowianthus stellatus 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.

Lettowianthus stellatus 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.

Lettowianthus stellatus can be propagated through seeds, air layering.

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Lettowianthus stellatus 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.

Lettowianthus stellatus grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Lettowianthus stellatus is native to Kenya and Tanzania. In cooler regions, grow Lettowianthus stellatus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.