Sarcolaena delphinensis Plant Care

Sarcolaena delphinensis (Sarcolaena delphinensis) belongs to the Sarcolaenaceae family within the Sarcolaena genus. Sarcolaena delphinensis is native to Madagascar.

Sarcolaena delphinensis displays a compact, spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 4 ft. Sarcolaena delphinensis produces small, fragrant white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Sarcolaena delphinensis 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.

Sarcolaena delphinensis thrives in partial shade to full shade. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Sarcolaena delphinensis in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Sarcolaena delphinensis tolerates temperatures of 65–75°F. Sarcolaena delphinensis prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, acidic soil with high organic matter content. Good drainage is essential for Sarcolaena delphinensis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Sarcolaena delphinensis 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 partial shade to full shade and well-draining, acidic soil with high organic matter content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Sarcolaena delphinensis 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.

Sarcolaena delphinensis can spread to about 4 ft (1.2 m) and reach about 3 ft (1 m) tall. Space plants about 4 ft (1.2 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 Sarcolaena delphinensis 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.

Sarcolaena delphinensis 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.

Sarcolaena delphinensis can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to sarcolaena codonochlamys plant care, which shares the same genus.

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

Sarcolaena delphinensis is susceptible to aphids, 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.

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