Stilbanthus scandens Plant Care

Stilbanthus scandens (Stilbanthus scandens) belongs to the Amaranthaceae family within the Stilbanthus genus.

Stilbanthus scandens displays a low spreading groundcover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Stilbanthus scandens produces small clusters of white or pink flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Stilbanthus scandens 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.

Stilbanthus scandens thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Stilbanthus scandens tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Stilbanthus scandens prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

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

Feed Stilbanthus scandens 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.

Stilbanthus scandens 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.

Stilbanthus scandens can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 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 plant spacing calculator.

Prune Stilbanthus scandens 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.

Stilbanthus scandens 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.

Stilbanthus scandens can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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

Stilbanthus scandens is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. 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.

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