Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Allow excess water to drain away completely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months, but do not let the soil become completely arid.
Also known as Small-Fruited Potato Bush
Phyllanthus ovalifolius is an attractive shrub known for its small fruits, often found in its native habitat. This plant is valued for its ornamental qualities.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Allow excess water to drain away completely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months, but do not let the soil become completely arid.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Lightly trim to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the plant.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Use a rooting hormone to improve success rates. Plant cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist in a warm, humid environment until roots form.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Small-Fruit Potatobush (Phyllanthus ovalifolius)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Magnoliopsida |
| order | Malpighiales |
| family | Phyllanthaceae |
| genus | Phyllanthus |
| species | Phyllanthus ovalifolius |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data