Disanthus cercidifolius — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Disanthus cercidifolius

Disanthus Cercidifolius

Updated · 15 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Disanthus cercidifolius is a species of flowering plant in the family Hamamelidaceae. It is native to woodland habitats in China and Japan.

A note from PlantMom

Long-stiped disanthus shows strong resistance to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, the plant is fairly low maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs minimal watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Long-stiped disanthust is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Disanthus Cercidifolius.

Light

Long-stiped disanthus thrives in places with good light penetration but can also tolerate spots where light is more intense. Its growth may be harmed by excessive sunlight, causing potential damage. Its native habitat, deciduous forests, provides variable light conditions, which is connected to its ability to adjust to different light intensities.

Water

The long-stiped disanthus, a plant native to woodland understories, thrives in areas with dappled light and moist soil. It has moderate drought tolerance, needing water every three weeks while permitting slight drying between waterings. During its dormancy in the colder months, its water requirements decrease, so you'll need to adjust your irrigation schedule accordingly.

Temperature

Long-stiped disanthus comes from temperate climates and grows well in temperatures between 41 and 90 °F (5 to 32 ℃). Being naturally adapted, it is comfortable with seasonal fluctuations. When cultivated in gardens, maintaining temperatures within its preferred range is necessary for optimal growth.

Fertilizer

Applying fertilizer at the right time is important for Long-stiped disanthus. Start feeding in early spring and continue on a monthly schedule until early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.

Pruning

The Long-stiped Disanthus features heart-shaped leaves and stunning fall colors. To maintain its health, prune this plant in early spring by removing dead branches and thinning out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Regular, light pruning helps promote its health, encourages blooming, and prevents disease, all while respecting its slow growth rate.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Disanthus
Family
Hamamelidaceae
Hardiness Zone
5-8
Mature Height
1.83 m to 3.05 m
Mature Spread
3.05 m
Leaf Color
Green, Red, Blue, Orange, Purple
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Purple, Red
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Mid fall, Late fall
Planting Time
Autumn
Harvest Time
Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Redbud hazel
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

What is the best way to water my Long-stiped disanthus?

To ensure excellent root development in your plants, consider using a garden hose at the base of the plant. It's important to avoid spraying the leaves directly as this can cause issues. If the plants are placed outdoors and regularly exposed to direct sunlight, keep in mind that the leaves will require more watering. One option is to use bubblers specifically designed for each plant to keep the roots moist. Another option is to use soaker hoses that can cover the entire garden or bed. When adding or removing plants, make sure to push the roots deeply into the soil. After watering, be sure to drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. To prevent diseases, it's best to water at ground level rather than spraying the leaves. On sunny days, it might be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether the plants are potted or in the ground, remember that Long-stiped disanthus prefers deep watering as opposed to light sprinkling.

Why should I add fertilizer to my Long-stiped disanthus plant?

No matter what type of Long-stiped disanthus you have, regular fertilization is important for its overall health. Providing the right nutrients will lead to stronger growth and make it more resilient to difficult growing conditions and diseases. The foliage of your Long-stiped disanthus is a beautiful feature, so it's essential to maintain it. This can be achieved by following a regular fertilization schedule tailored to your specific plant. Proper fertilization will result in deep-colored leaves and an overall lush appearance.

How much sunlight does Long-stiped disanthus need to grow?

Long-stiped disanthus thrives with 3-6 hours of direct sunlight each day, but it also needs shade during the hottest parts of the day to avoid sun damage. Morning sunlight is best, but it can withstand some afternoon sun if it's not too hot. To achieve the ideal sunlight balance, plant Long-stiped disanthus in a partially sunny area, like under a tree or on the east side of a building.

What temperature is best for Long-striped disanthus?

The ideal temperature range for Long-stiped disanthus to thrive is between 65 and 80℉ (18-27℃). During the main growth phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95℉ (35℃) and as low as 15℉ (-10℃). This species is also able to survive freezing winters, indicating its tolerance for low temperatures. The recommended temperature ranges are as follows: - Ideal: 65~80℉ (18~27℃) - Highest tolerable: 85~95℉ (30~35℃) - Lowest tolerable: -5~15℉ (-20~-10℃) or below.

What should I do if I give too much or too little water to the Long-stiped disanthus?

If you overwater a Long-stiped disanthus, its leaves can turn yellow, drop off, and wilt. The plant may look dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. When these signs appear, it's best to adjust your watering schedule. Wilting can also indicate under watering. Underwatered leaves will become crispy and dry, while overwatered leaves will be soft and wilted. If the soil is dry and watering alone is insufficient, give the plant a thorough watering. However, even with enough water, the Long-stiped disanthus may still have dry, yellow leaves for a few days due to root damage. Once it recovers, the yellowing of leaves will stop. When keeping a Long-stiped disanthus indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. Look for signs of black spots, and if present, allow the soil to dry out for a few days before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be identified by discolored and slimy roots. If root rot is present, consider transferring the plant to a different pot and take preventive measures to avoid letting the soil become too soggy. When planting a Long-stiped disanthus outdoors, dig a little deeper and check if the soil is too dry. In that case, adequate watering is necessary for the plant's recovery.

When should I fertilize my Long-stiped disanthus for the best results?

To ensure healthy growth, fertilize your Long-stiped disanthus in late winter or early spring. This provides the necessary nutrients for growth once the warmer weather arrives. Additionally, if you live in a warm climate, it's beneficial to give your plant another round of fertilizer in early fall. This supplements the soil with nutrients for the following growing season and helps the plant withstand the cold winter without foliage damage. Fertilizing earlier in the season helps the new branches develop and withstand winter conditions.

What will happen if a Long-stiped disanthus plant doesn't receive enough sunlight?

Long-stiped disanthus may suffer from sun damage if it is exposed to excessive direct sunlight, resulting in yellow leaves, dryness, or potential burning. Additionally, the plant may wilt or experience stunted growth. To prevent such damage, provide shade for the plant during the hottest periods of the day. This can be done by using a shade cloth or planting it near taller plants that offer natural shade.

Should I change the temperature for Long-stiped disanthus as it grows?

According to research, Long-stiped disanthus plants may experience stunted growth when exposed to prolonged higher temperatures, particularly when their axillary buds and main shoots are developing. To promote healthy growth after germination or transplanting, it is recommended to maintain consistent and cooler temperatures, around 65℉ (18℃).

How often should I water my Long-stiped disanthus plant?

The Long-stiped disanthus plant prefers deep and infrequent watering. If you have them planted in pots, it is best to soak them with a gallon of water each time, as the limited water storage in pots causes the soil to dry out quickly. In cold regions, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days. It is best to water the plant early in the morning when the soil is dry, both indoors and outdoors. You can check if watering is necessary by examining the soil. When the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, it's time for a full watering. On hot days, it's advisable to check the moisture daily, as the heat can rapidly dry out the soil in pots. If you have a garden, watering the soil will also be necessary. In hot climates, watering once a week is generally recommended. Pay attention to the dryness of the top 2-3 inches of soil, both indoors and outdoors, before watering. Take into account any rainfall and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. If there is ample rainfall, additional watering may not be necessary. The Long-stiped disanthus plant typically grows during spring and fall. For outdoor plants, adding a 3-4 inch layer of mulch can help conserve water. Sandy soil requires more frequent watering due to its fast drainage, while clay soil can be watered less frequently (every 2-3 days) to avoid root rot. Keeping track of watering dates on a calendar can help ensure timely watering, especially if you notice the plant's leaves drooping, which could indicate it needs water.

When should I not add plant food to my Long-stiped disanthus?

There are specific times throughout the year when you should avoid fertilizing your Long-stiped disanthus. Firstly, during the early and mid-winter months, this plant is dormant and does not require any additional nutrients. Secondly, it is not recommended to fertilize this plant during late spring and throughout the summer due to the hotter and drier weather conditions. Fertilizing during this time can result in negative effects on your Long-stiped disanthus. To prevent such problems, it is best to follow a fertilization schedule that focuses on feeding in early spring and early fall.

What happens if Long-stiped disanthus gets too much sunlight?

Long-stiped disanthus may exhibit tall and lanky growth along with sparse foliage if it lacks sunlight. Additionally, its leaves may turn yellow or pale green, indicating insufficient chlorophyll production due to the lack of sunlight. To address this issue, consider relocating the Long-stiped disanthus to a sunnier spot or pruning nearby foliage to enhance light exposure for the plant.

How do I make sure Long-stiped disanthus stays warm during cold seasons?

Long-striped disanthus can survive freezing temperatures if planted in the ground, as long as the temperature does not drop below 15℉ (-10℃). However, if planted in pots or containers, it is necessary to protect the roots from the cold. This can be done by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it indoors for complete protection from the winter weather.

PLATES
Disanthus cercidifolius leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Disanthus cercidifolius leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Disanthus cercidifolius fruit
PLATE 03 · fruit
Disanthus cercidifolius fruit
PLATE 04 · fruit
Disanthus cercidifolius habit
PLATE 05 · habit