Tree Phylica Plant Care

Tree Phylica (Phylica arborea) belongs to the Rhamnaceae family within the Phylica genus.

Tree Phylica displays a compact, bushy shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Tree Phylica produces small, fragrant white or pink flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Tree Phylica 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.

Tree Phylica thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Phylica arborea tolerates temperatures of 50–80°F. Tree Phylica prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining sandy soil mix with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Tree Phylica to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Tree Phylica 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 full sun to partial shade and well-draining sandy soil mix with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Tree Phylica is suited to USDA Zone 12a.

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.

Tree Phylica can spread to about 2 ft (0.6 m) and reach about 3 ft (1 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 Tree Phylica 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.

Tree Phylica is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 12). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Tree Phylica can be propagated through softwood cuttings, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to polium-leaved phylica plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Tree Phylica is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, 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.

Tree Phylica grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. In cooler regions, grow Tree Phylica as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.