Vaupesia cataractarum Plant Care

Vaupesia cataractarum (Vaupesia cataractarum) belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family within the Vaupesia genus. Vaupesia cataractarum is native to southeastern Colombia and northwestern Brazil.

Vaupesia cataractarum displays a tall, slender tree growth habit, reaching up to 15 ft tall with a spread of approximately 5 ft. Vaupesia cataractarum produces small, inconspicuous greenish flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 8 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Vaupesia cataractarum every 7–14 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.

Vaupesia cataractarum thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Vaupesia cataractarum in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

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

Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Vaupesia cataractarum to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Vaupesia cataractarum 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 bright indirect light and well-draining, slightly acidic soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Vaupesia cataractarum 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.

Vaupesia cataractarum can spread to about 5 ft (1.5 m) and reach about 15 ft (5 m) tall. Space plants about 5 ft (1.5 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 tree spacing calculator.

Prune Vaupesia cataractarum 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.

Vaupesia cataractarum 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.

Vaupesia cataractarum can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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

Vaupesia cataractarum is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs. 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.

Vaupesia cataractarum grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Vaupesia cataractarum is native to southeastern Colombia and northwestern Brazil. In cooler regions, grow Vaupesia cataractarum as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.