Overview
Spathicarpa hastifolia is a plant with a bushy, clump forming habit in the genus Spathicarpa, part of the Araceae family, with deciduous foliage. Spathicarpa hastifolia grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, mediterranean climate plants, city and courtyard gardens, coastal, patio and container plants, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Spathicarpa hastifolia, commonly known as the caterpillar plant, is a bushy, clump-forming cultivar within the Araceae family. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for a variety of garden settings including cottage and informal gardens, city courtyards, coastal areas, and patios. Its season of interest spans spring and summer, making it a versatile choice for flower borders and wildlife gardens.
About the genus
Spathicarpa is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, all of which are endemic to South America. Spathicarpa species are notable for the fact that the entirety of their spadix is fused to the spathe. The genus is believed to be closely related to Spathantheum.
Wikipedia contributors, "Spathicarpa", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Spathicarpa
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Spathicarpa
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Spathicarpa hastifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Spathicarpa hastifolia
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Spathicarpa hastifolia?
Spathicarpa hastifolia prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Spathicarpa hastifolia need?
Spathicarpa hastifolia grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Spathicarpa hastifolia hardy in the UK?
Spathicarpa hastifolia has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Spathicarpa hastifolia?
Seed.