Nauclea latifolia Plant Care

Nauclea latifolia (Nauclea latifolia) belongs to the Rubiaceae family within the Nauclea genus. Nauclea latifolia is native to tropical regions of sub-Saharan Africa.

Nauclea latifolia displays an upright, bushy shrub growth habit, reaching up to 4 ft tall with a spread of approximately 3 ft. Nauclea latifolia produces small, fragrant white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Nauclea latifolia every 7–14 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.

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

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

Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Nauclea latifolia to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Nauclea latifolia 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, slightly acidic soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Nauclea latifolia 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.

Nauclea latifolia can spread to about 3 ft (0.9 m) and reach about 4 ft (1 m) tall. Space plants about 3 ft (0.9 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 Nauclea latifolia 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.

Nauclea latifolia 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.

Nauclea latifolia can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to african pinwheel plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Nauclea latifolia is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, 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.

Nauclea latifolia grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Nauclea latifolia is native to tropical regions of sub-Saharan Africa. In cooler regions, grow Nauclea latifolia as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.