Phaeanthus ophthalmicus Plant Care

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus (Phaeanthus ophthalmicus) belongs to the Annonaceae family within the Phaeanthus genus.

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus displays a small tree, spreading canopy growth habit, reaching up to 15 ft tall with a spread of approximately 10 ft. Phaeanthus ophthalmicus produces small, fragrant white flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Phaeanthus ophthalmicus 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.

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus thrives in partial shade to full sun.

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Phaeanthus ophthalmicus prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. 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 Phaeanthus ophthalmicus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Phaeanthus ophthalmicus 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.

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus 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.

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus can spread to about 10 ft (3 m) and reach about 15 ft (5 m) tall. Space plants about 10 ft (3 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 Phaeanthus ophthalmicus 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.

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus 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.

Phaeanthus ophthalmicus can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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Phaeanthus ophthalmicus 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.

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