Spider tree Plant Care

Spider tree (Tapura arachnoidea) belongs to the Dichapetalaceae family within the Tapura genus. Spider tree is native to Gabon. Spider tree is also known as Tapura.

Spider tree displays a small tree or shrub growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 8 ft. Spider tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Spider 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.

Spider tree thrives in partial shade to full sun.

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

Well-draining, acidic soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Spider tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Spider 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 partial shade to full sun and well-draining, acidic soil with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Spider tree is suited to USDA Zone 13b.

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.

Spider tree can spread to about 8 ft (2.4 m) and reach about 10 ft (3 m) tall. Space plants about 8 ft (2.4 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 Spider 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.

Spider tree 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.

Spider tree can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to tapura carinata plant care, which shares the same genus.

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

Spider tree 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.

Spider tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Spider tree is native to Gabon. In cooler regions, grow Spider tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.