Micropholis spectabilis Plant Care

Micropholis spectabilis (Micropholis spectabilis) belongs to the Sapotaceae family within the Micropholis genus. Micropholis spectabilis is native to Venezuela.

Micropholis spectabilis displays a slow-growing small tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 ft tall with a spread of approximately 8 ft. Micropholis spectabilis produces small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Micropholis spectabilis 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.

Micropholis spectabilis thrives in partial shade to full sun.

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

Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Micropholis spectabilis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Micropholis spectabilis 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 well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Micropholis spectabilis 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.

Micropholis spectabilis 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 Micropholis spectabilis 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.

Micropholis spectabilis 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.

Micropholis spectabilis can be propagated through seeds, air layering. Similar propagation techniques also apply to micropholis brochidodroma plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Micropholis spectabilis is susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, 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.

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