Holly-leaved synapsis Plant Care

Holly-leaved synapsis (Synapsis ilicifolia) belongs to the Schlegeliaceae family within the Synapsis genus. Holly-leaved synapsis is native to the island of Cuba. Holly-leaved synapsis is also known as Holly-leafed synapsis.

Holly-leaved synapsis displays a low rosette, spreading ground cover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Holly-leaved synapsis produces small, star-shaped white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Holly-leaved synapsis 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.

Holly-leaved synapsis thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Holly-leaved synapsis in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Synapsis ilicifolia tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Holly-leaved synapsis prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, loamy soil with added perlite for extra drainage. Good drainage is essential for Holly-leaved synapsis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Holly-leaved synapsis 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 bright indirect light and well-draining, loamy soil with added perlite for extra drainage. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Holly-leaved synapsis 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.

Holly-leaved synapsis can spread to about 1 ft (0.3 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 1 ft (0.3 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 Holly-leaved synapsis 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.

Holly-leaved synapsis 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.

Holly-leaved synapsis can be propagated through leaf cuttings, division, offsets.

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

Holly-leaved synapsis is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects. 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.

Holly-leaved synapsis grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Holly-leaved synapsis is native to the island of Cuba. In cooler regions, grow Holly-leaved synapsis as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.