Pellitory Plant Care

Pellitory (Rhoiacarpos capensis) belongs to the Santalaceae family within the Rhoiacarpos genus. Pellitory is native to the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Pellitory is also known as Wild Pellitory.

Pellitory displays a low spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Pellitory produces small inconspicuous flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Pellitory 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.

Pellitory thrives in partial to full shade. The optimal light range is 50–200 lux. Avoid placing Pellitory in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Rhoiacarpos capensis tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Pellitory prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

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

Feed Pellitory every 8 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 partial to full shade and well-draining sandy soil mix with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Pellitory is suited to USDA Zone 9b – 11b.

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.

Pellitory 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 Pellitory 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.

Pellitory is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 9). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Pellitory can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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

Pellitory 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.

Pellitory grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9b – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 9b. Pellitory is native to the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. In cooler regions, grow Pellitory as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.