How to Grow and Care for Spider Tree
Successfully grow the lush, five-fingered Spider Tree. This guide details the essential requirements for robust health and graceful, managed growth.
The Spider Tree, or Neopanax arboreus, is an evergreen native to New Zealand also known as the five-finger tree. It has a lush, bushy appearance with distinctive, glossy green leaves that are palmate, meaning they are shaped like a hand with multiple lobes. This plant grows as a tree or large shrub and is valued for its architectural form. It produces small flowers followed by dark purple fruits.
Spider Tree Care
Light
The Spider Tree thrives in full sun to partial shade. When grown outdoors, a location with ample morning sunlight and some protection from intense afternoon sun is ideal. Indoors, place it where it can receive bright, filtered light. A spot near a window that avoids direct, harsh sunlight will prevent leaf scorch.
Soil
The Spider Tree prefers a fertile, well-draining medium. A quality potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand will improve drainage and prevent water from pooling around the roots. The soil should retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged, as this helps prevent root rot.
Water
This plant prefers consistently moist conditions. Water the Spider Tree every one to two weeks, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root issues and yellowing leaves.
Temperature and Humidity
The Spider Tree grows best in moderate temperatures, from 68 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 35 degrees Celsius). It is frost-hardy down to about -5°C but should be sheltered from cold, drying winds. The plant thrives in humid environments, and low humidity can cause the tips of the leaves to turn brown. For indoor plants, increasing ambient moisture by regular misting is beneficial.
Fertilizer
The Spider Tree benefits from regular feeding during its active growing season. Apply a balanced, high-nitrogen fertilizer every two months in spring and summer, reducing to quarterly in the fall. Use a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength, and water the plant before application to prevent root burn.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning is performed to shape the Spider Tree, control its size, and maintain its health. The best time to prune is during the plant’s dormancy in late winter, as this minimizes stress. Removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches improves air circulation and light penetration throughout the plant.
When pruning, use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just above a leaf node. This encourages the plant to branch out for a fuller appearance. To avoid shock, remove no more than one-third of the plant’s total volume at one time. Minimal pruning is often all that is required to maintain its naturally well-shaped framework.
Propagation Methods
The most common way to propagate a Spider Tree is through stem cuttings. Take semi-hardwood cuttings from a healthy, established plant. Select a stem with several leaf nodes and make a clean cut just below one of them, as this is where new roots will form.
Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage root development and plant it in a container with a well-draining potting mix. Maintain high humidity around the cutting by covering the pot with a plastic bag. Place the container in a location with indirect sunlight. While propagation from seed is possible, taking cuttings is more practical for home gardeners.
Common Pests and Issues
Spider Trees are resilient but can sometimes face issues with pests. Spider mites and aphids may appear, so look for fine webbing on the leaves or small insects clustered on new growth. Regularly inspecting the foliage can help you catch any infestations early.