Mitracarpus polycladus Plant Care

Mitracarpus polycladus (Mitracarpus polycladus) belongs to the Rubiaceae family within the Mitracarpus genus. Mitracarpus polycladus is native to Puerto Rico.

Mitracarpus polycladus displays a low spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Mitracarpus polycladus produces small white or pink flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Mitracarpus polycladus every 7–10 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.

Mitracarpus polycladus thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Mitracarpus polycladus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Mitracarpus polycladus tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Mitracarpus polycladus prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining sandy soil mix with added peat moss and perlite. Good drainage is essential for Mitracarpus polycladus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Mitracarpus polycladus 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 bright indirect light and well-draining sandy soil mix with added peat moss and perlite. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Mitracarpus polycladus is suited to USDA Zone 13b.

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.

Mitracarpus polycladus can spread to about 2 ft (0.6 m) and reach about 2 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.6 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 plant spacing calculator.

Prune Mitracarpus polycladus 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.

Mitracarpus polycladus 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.

Mitracarpus polycladus can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to hairy mitracarpus plant care, which shares the same genus.

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

Mitracarpus polycladus is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, 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.

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