Semecarpus parvifolia Plant Care

Semecarpus parvifolia (Semecarpus parvifolia) belongs to the Anacardiaceae family within the Semecarpus genus. Semecarpus parvifolia is native to Sri Lanka.

Semecarpus parvifolia displays a medium-sized tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 ft tall with a spread of approximately 20 ft. Semecarpus parvifolia produces small greenish-yellow flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Semecarpus parvifolia every 7–14 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.

Semecarpus parvifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Semecarpus parvifolia tolerates temperatures of 60–85°F. Semecarpus parvifolia prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

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

Feed Semecarpus parvifolia 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 full sun to partial shade and well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Semecarpus parvifolia is suited to USDA Zone 11a – 12b.

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.

Semecarpus parvifolia can spread to about 20 ft (6.1 m) and reach about 30 ft (9 m) tall. Space plants about 20 ft (6.1 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 Semecarpus parvifolia 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.

Semecarpus parvifolia is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 11). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Semecarpus parvifolia can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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

Semecarpus parvifolia is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, mites. 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.

Semecarpus parvifolia grows outdoors in USDA Zone 11a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 11a. Semecarpus parvifolia is native to Sri Lanka. In cooler regions, grow Semecarpus parvifolia as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.