Trichostigma peruvianum Plant Care

Trichostigma peruvianum (Trichostigma peruvianum) belongs to the Petiveriaceae family within the Trichostigma genus. Trichostigma peruvianum is native to Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru.

Trichostigma peruvianum displays a low spreading groundcover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Trichostigma peruvianum produces small white clustered flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Trichostigma peruvianum 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.

Trichostigma peruvianum thrives in partial to full shade. The optimal light range is 50–200 lux. Avoid placing Trichostigma peruvianum in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Trichostigma peruvianum tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Trichostigma peruvianum prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

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

Feed Trichostigma peruvianum 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 partial to full shade and well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Trichostigma peruvianum 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.

Trichostigma peruvianum 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 Trichostigma peruvianum 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.

Trichostigma peruvianum 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.

Trichostigma peruvianum can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to wild coffee plant care, which shares the same genus.

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

Trichostigma peruvianum is susceptible to aphids, 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.

Trichostigma peruvianum grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Trichostigma peruvianum is native to Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru. In cooler regions, grow Trichostigma peruvianum as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.