Smoothbark tree Plant Care

Smoothbark tree (Spathelia glabrescens) belongs to the Rutaceae family within the Spathelia genus. Smoothbark tree is native to Jamaica.

Smoothbark tree displays a small tree or shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 ft tall with a spread of approximately 4 ft. Smoothbark tree produces small white fragrant flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Smoothbark tree 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.

Smoothbark tree thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Spathelia glabrescens tolerates temperatures of 60–85°F. Smoothbark tree prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with added organic matter like compost. Good drainage is essential for Smoothbark tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Smoothbark tree 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, slightly acidic soil mix with added organic matter like compost. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Smoothbark tree is suited to USDA Zone 10b – 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.

Smoothbark tree can spread to about 4 ft (1.2 m) and reach about 6 ft (2 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 tree spacing calculator.

Prune Smoothbark tree 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.

Smoothbark tree is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 10). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Smoothbark tree can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to scarlet-flowered spathelia plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Smoothbark tree is susceptible to citrus leaf miner, citrus psyllid. 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.

Smoothbark tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10b. Smoothbark tree is native to Jamaica. In cooler regions, grow Smoothbark tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.