Schistocarpaea johnsonii Plant Care

Schistocarpaea johnsonii (Schistocarpaea johnsonii) belongs to the Rhamnaceae family within the Schistocarpaea genus.

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

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Schistocarpaea johnsonii 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.

Schistocarpaea johnsonii thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Schistocarpaea johnsonii tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Schistocarpaea johnsonii prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Schistocarpaea johnsonii to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Schistocarpaea johnsonii 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 full sun to partial shade and well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter for moisture retention. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Schistocarpaea johnsonii is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

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.

Schistocarpaea johnsonii 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 Schistocarpaea johnsonii 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.

Schistocarpaea johnsonii 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.

Schistocarpaea johnsonii can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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

Schistocarpaea johnsonii 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.

Schistocarpaea johnsonii grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. In cooler regions, grow Schistocarpaea johnsonii as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.