Uvariopsis zenkeri Plant Care

Uvariopsis zenkeri Engl.

Updated · Sources · How we source care data

This plant is known for its large, glossy, dark green leaves with prominent veining. Originating from tropical Africa, Uvariopsis zenkeri is highly sought after by plant collectors for its unique foliage and striking appearance, making it a stunning addition to any collection.

Water

Every 7–10 days

Light

Partial shade to full sun

Temp

65–85°F

Humidity

50–80%

At a glance

How do you care for Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Plant Uvariopsis zenkeri in partial shade to full sun (USDA zones 13b) and water a young tree every 7–10 days until it is established. It tolerates temperatures of 65–85°F (18–29°C). Fertilize it every 6 months during the growing season.

Where Is the Uvariopsis zenkeri Native To?

Native range2 countries

What Is the Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Uvariopsis zenkeri (Uvariopsis zenkeri) belongs to the Annonaceae family within the Uvariopsis genus. Uvariopsis zenkeri is native to Cameroon and the Central African Republic. Uvariopsis zenkeri is also known as Zenker's uvariopsis.

Uvariopsis zenkeri displays a small to medium-sized tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 ft tall with a spread of approximately 10 ft. Uvariopsis zenkeri produces small, greenish-yellow flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Water a young or newly planted Uvariopsis zenkeri 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.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–10 days

Until established; then in dry spells

What Light Does the Uvariopsis zenkeri Need?

Uvariopsis zenkeri thrives in partial shade to full sun.

Light Requirement

Partial shade to full sun

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Uvariopsis zenkeri Prefer?

Uvariopsis zenkeri tolerates temperatures of 65–85°F. Uvariopsis zenkeri prefers humidity levels of 50–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Temperature

65–85°F

Humidity

50–80%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Uvariopsis zenkeri to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Often Should You Fertilize a Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Feed Uvariopsis zenkeri 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.

Fertilizing

Every 6 months

During the growing season

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Where Should You Plant a Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Choose a spot with partial shade to full sun and rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Uvariopsis zenkeri 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.

How Far Apart Should You Plant a Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Uvariopsis zenkeri can spread to about 10 ft (3 m) and reach about 15 ft (5 m) tall. Space plants about 10 ft (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 tree spacing calculator.

How Do You Prune a Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Prune Uvariopsis zenkeri 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.

How Do You Care for a Uvariopsis zenkeri in Winter?

Uvariopsis zenkeri 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.

How Do You Propagate a Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Uvariopsis zenkeri can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

Is the Uvariopsis zenkeri Toxic to Pets and Children?

Pet safety not verified

The ASPCA does not list Uvariopsis zenkeri, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Keep pets from chewing it as a precaution.

This is a general caution, not veterinary or medical advice. If your pet ate a plant, contact your vet or animal poison control.

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

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Uvariopsis zenkeri?

Uvariopsis zenkeri is susceptible to 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.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Uvariopsis zenkeri Need?

Uvariopsis zenkeri grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Uvariopsis zenkeri is native to Cameroon and the Central African Republic. In cooler regions, grow Uvariopsis zenkeri as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 13b

Keep exploring plants

Uvariopsis zenkeri is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Uvariopsis genus — compare its care with other Uvariopsis species on PlantoScan.

Uvariopsis is part of the Annonaceae plant family — browse all Annonaceae genera and species.

Uvariopsis zenkeri thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.

Related Plant Care Guides

Closely related plants with similar care requirements:

Sources

  • Scientific name & taxonomy: Uvariopsis zenkeri Engl., family Annonaceae (first published in Notizbl. Königl. Bot. Gart. Berlin 2: 298 (1899)) — World Flora Online record, IPNI name record.
  • Pet toxicity: Pet safety not verified: the ASPCA does not list Uvariopsis zenkeri, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Checked against the ASPCA plant list; any other toxicity note on this page comes from PlantoScan's plant database.
  • Hardiness zone: USDA Zone 13b, calculated from the plant's minimum temperature.
  • Care values(watering, light, temperature, humidity, soil, fertilizing): PlantoScan's plant database, filtered by automatic plausibility checks — values that fail them are hidden. How we source and check plant data.

Spotted a mistake? Email info@upvision.media with the page link — we check and correct reported errors.

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