Benin Rhaphiostylis Plant Care

Benin Rhaphiostylis (Rhaphiostylis beninensis) belongs to the Metteniusaceae family within the Rhaphiostylis genus. Benin Rhaphiostylis is native to Tropical Africa, belonging to the family Metteniusaceae, and one of 3 species in the genus Rhaphiostylis.

Benin Rhaphiostylis displays a tall, elegant tree with a single trunk growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 5 ft. Benin Rhaphiostylis produces small, fragrant white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 8 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Benin Rhaphiostylis every 7–10 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.

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

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

Loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Benin Rhaphiostylis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Benin Rhaphiostylis 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 bright indirect light and loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Benin Rhaphiostylis 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.

Benin Rhaphiostylis can spread to about 5 ft (1.5 m) and reach about 10 ft (3 m) tall. Space plants about 5 ft (1.5 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 Benin Rhaphiostylis 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.

Benin Rhaphiostylis 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.

Benin Rhaphiostylis can be propagated through rhizome division, stem cuttings, air layering.

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

Benin Rhaphiostylis 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.

Benin Rhaphiostylis grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Benin Rhaphiostylis is native to Tropical Africa, belonging to the family Metteniusaceae, and one of 3 species in the genus Rhaphiostylis. In cooler regions, grow Benin Rhaphiostylis as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.