Scaphopetalum parvifolium Plant Care

Scaphopetalum parvifolium (Scaphopetalum parvifolium) belongs to the Malvaceae family within the Scaphopetalum genus. Scaphopetalum parvifolium is native to Nigeria.

Scaphopetalum parvifolium displays a tall, upright shrub growth habit, reaching up to 5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 3 ft. Scaphopetalum parvifolium produces large, showy flowers in shades of pink, red, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 8 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Scaphopetalum parvifolium 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.

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

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

Well-draining, rich potting mix with added perlite for aeration. Good drainage is essential for Scaphopetalum parvifolium to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Scaphopetalum parvifolium 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 well-draining, rich potting mix with added perlite for aeration. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Scaphopetalum parvifolium 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.

Scaphopetalum parvifolium can spread to about 3 ft (0.9 m) and reach about 5 ft (2 m) tall. Space plants about 3 ft (0.9 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 Scaphopetalum parvifolium 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.

Scaphopetalum parvifolium 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.

Scaphopetalum parvifolium can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to scaphopetalum blackii plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Scaphopetalum parvifolium 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.

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