Spathelia simplex Plant Care

Spathelia simplex (Spathelia simplex) belongs to the Rutaceae family within the Spathelia genus.

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

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Spathelia simplex 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.

Spathelia simplex thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Spathelia simplex tolerates temperatures of 60–85°F. Spathelia simplex 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 Spathelia simplex to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Spathelia simplex 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.

Spathelia simplex is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

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.

Spathelia simplex 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 Spathelia simplex 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.

Spathelia simplex 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.

Spathelia simplex 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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Spathelia simplex 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.

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