Merrilliodendron megacarpum Plant Care

Merrilliodendron megacarpum (Merrilliodendron megacarpum) belongs to the Icacinaceae family within the Merrilliodendron genus.

Merrilliodendron megacarpum displays a tall, upright tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 ft tall with a spread of approximately 15 ft. Merrilliodendron megacarpum produces small, inconspicuous flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Merrilliodendron megacarpum 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.

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

Merrilliodendron megacarpum tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Merrilliodendron megacarpum 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 like compost or peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Merrilliodendron megacarpum to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Merrilliodendron megacarpum 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 rich, well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Merrilliodendron megacarpum is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

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.

Merrilliodendron megacarpum can spread to about 15 ft (4.6 m) and reach about 30 ft (9 m) tall. Space plants about 15 ft (4.6 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 Merrilliodendron megacarpum 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.

Merrilliodendron megacarpum 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.

Merrilliodendron megacarpum can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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

Merrilliodendron megacarpum 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.

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