Scaphispatha gracilis Plant Care

Scaphispatha gracilis (Scaphispatha gracilis) belongs to the Araceae family within the Scaphispatha genus. Scaphispatha gracilis is native to Brazil and Bolivia, and has peltate leaves that resembles those in the genus Caladium.

Scaphispatha gracilis displays a low rosette, spreading growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Scaphispatha gracilis produces small, inconspicuous flowers surrounded by a green spathe.

Leaf size: approximately 8 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Scaphispatha gracilis 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.

Scaphispatha gracilis thrives in bright indirect to low light. Avoid placing Scaphispatha gracilis in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Scaphispatha gracilis tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Scaphispatha gracilis prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Rich, well-draining peat-based mix with perlite and orchid bark. Good drainage is essential for Scaphispatha gracilis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Scaphispatha gracilis 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 bright indirect to low light and rich, well-draining peat-based mix with perlite and orchid bark. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Scaphispatha gracilis 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.

Scaphispatha gracilis 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 Scaphispatha gracilis 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.

Scaphispatha gracilis 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.

Scaphispatha gracilis can be propagated through division, air layering, offsets.

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

Scaphispatha gracilis is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, 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.

Scaphispatha gracilis grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Scaphispatha gracilis is native to Brazil and Bolivia, and has peltate leaves that resembles those in the genus Caladium. In cooler regions, grow Scaphispatha gracilis as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.