Retzia capensis Plant Care

Retzia capensis (Retzia capensis) belongs to the Stilbaceae family within the Retzia genus.

Retzia capensis displays a low spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Retzia capensis produces small tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Retzia capensis 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.

Retzia capensis thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Retzia capensis tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Retzia capensis prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

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

Feed Retzia capensis 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 peat moss and perlite. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Retzia capensis 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.

Retzia capensis 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 Retzia capensis 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.

Retzia capensis 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.

Retzia capensis can be propagated through softwood cuttings, division.

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

Retzia capensis is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. 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.

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