Spongiosperma macrophyllum Plant Care

Spongiosperma macrophyllum (Spongiosperma macrophyllum) belongs to the Apocynaceae family within the Spongiosperma genus. Spongiosperma macrophyllum is native to the Amazon Basin of South America, nations of Venezuela, Colombia, and Brazil.

Spongiosperma macrophyllum displays a tall, slender tree growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 5 ft. Spongiosperma macrophyllum produces small, fragrant white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Spongiosperma macrophyllum 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.

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

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

Well-draining, rich loamy soil with added perlite for improved drainage. Good drainage is essential for Spongiosperma macrophyllum to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Spongiosperma macrophyllum 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 loamy soil with added perlite for improved drainage. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Spongiosperma macrophyllum 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.

Spongiosperma macrophyllum can spread to about 5 ft (1.5 m) and reach about 10 ft (3 m) tall. Space plants about 5 ft (1.5 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 Spongiosperma macrophyllum 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.

Spongiosperma macrophyllum 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.

Spongiosperma macrophyllum can be propagated through stem cuttings, air layering.

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

Spongiosperma macrophyllum is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, spider 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.

Spongiosperma macrophyllum grows outdoors in USDA Zone 11a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 11a. Spongiosperma macrophyllum is native to the Amazon Basin of South America, nations of Venezuela, Colombia, and Brazil. In cooler regions, grow Spongiosperma macrophyllum as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.