Shaving brush tree care guide

Pets and children

We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.

How often to water Shaving brush tree

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 7 days

A summer grower: start once buds break in spring, then water thoroughly when the soil has dried through, as a guide; it dries faster in midsummer.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 14 days

As it cools and the leaves color, water about a week after the soil dries, as a guide.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 30 days

Once leafless keep it almost dry, moistening lightly about once a month on a warm day, as a guide.

Light and placement for Shaving brush tree

Full sun outdoors from spring to fall as a guide, which fattens the base and sharpens the green turtle-shell pattern; indoors it generally grows lanky, and results vary with conditions.

Overwintering Shaving brush tree

Overwintering guide: 8°C (46°F) or above

Tender: as a guide, move it to a bright place indoors when nights fall below 12°C and keep it above 8°C; a leafless plant with a firm trunk is dormant, so keep it on the dry side until spring.

Fertilizing and repotting Shaving brush tree

Fertilizer

From May to September while in leaf, slow-release fertilizer every two months or diluted liquid feed about twice a month; none while leafless.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Shaving brush tree

• Watered as usual after leaf drop, the roots and trunk base rot.
• Winter cold kills the branch tips and delays spring growth.
• In poor light the branches stretch while the trunk stays thin.

Tips for growing Shaving brush tree

• Cutting back long branches before spring growth keeps the plant low and compact.
• It grows fast, so move it to a slightly larger pot in early summer when root-bound.
• In spring, check that the trunk is firm and hold back water until the buds move.

More caudex plant care guides

• Stephania erectaStephania erecta
• Tree grapeCyphostemma juttae
• UncarinaUncarina
• Adenia glaucaAdenia glauca
• Adenium arabicumAdenium arabicum
• Buddha belly plantJatropha podagrica