Dendrolobium umbellatum Aurea, Yellow Desmodium – Rare

Size: Single plant | Pot Included 2.5″-4″

Dendrolobium umbellatum Aurea, also known as Yellow Desmodium or Horse Bush, is a striking subshrub or small tree valued for its bright, often golden-yellow foliage. It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant, especially once established, and thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.

Here’s a guide to Dendrolobium umbellatum Aurea, Yellow Desmodium’s care:

1. Light:

• Full Sun: This plant absolutely loves bright, direct sunlight. For optimal growth and to bring out the vibrant yellow color of its foliage, aim for at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. It can tolerate some semi-shade, but its color may be less intense.

2. Watering:

• Moderate Watering: While it’s relatively drought-tolerant once established, regular watering is necessary, especially during its early growth period to help it establish strong roots.
• Allow Soil to Dry: The key is to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering is a common issue.
• Established Plants: Once established, it’s quite sturdy and can tolerate periods of dryness.

3. Soil:

• Well-Draining Loamy Soil: Dendrolobium umbellatum ‘Aurea’ prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils, and even saline soils, making it suitable for coastal areas.
• Good Drainage is Essential: Regardless of soil type, good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
• Nitrogen-Fixing: As a member of the Fabaceae (pea) family, its roots have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which can improve soil quality for other nearby plants.

4. Temperature and Humidity:

• Moderate Temperatures: It thrives in moderate to warm temperatures, typically around 25°C (77°F). It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 13-40°C.
• Moderate Humidity: The plant does well in moderate humidity levels. It is native to seasonally dry tropical climates.

5. Fertilizer:

• Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer, such as one with a 5-10-10 nutrient composition.
• Growing Season: Fertilize the plant during its growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing.

6. Pruning:

• Maintain Shape and Health: Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape, encourage new growth, and keep it looking immaculate.
• Remove Dead/Damaged Branches: Remove any dead or damaged branches promptly to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Early Growing Season: Pruning is best done in the early growing season. It responds well to hard pruning if you want to maintain a specific size or shape, like a hedge.

7. Repotting:

• When Outgrown: Repot Dendrolobium umbellatum ‘Aurea’ when it outgrows its current container or when the soil becomes depleted.
• Slightly Larger Pot: Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage.
• Fresh Loamy Soil: Use fresh, well-draining loamy soil.
• Early Growing Season: Repotting is best done in the early growing season.

8. Propagation:

• Seeds: Propagation can be done through seeds. Soak seeds in warm water overnight before sowing them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep them moist until germination.
• Cuttings: For cuttings, take healthy stem cuttings (15-20 cm long hardwood cuttings are effective) and plant them in a moist, well-draining soil mix.
• Growing Season: Propagation is best done during the growing season.

9. Pests and Diseases:

• Generally Disease Resistant: This plant is generally disease resistant.
• Watch for Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Use organic or chemical pesticides as needed.
• Root Rot: Root rot can occur due to overwatering. Ensure proper drainage.
• Powdery Mildew: Poor conditions can sometimes lead to problems like powdery mildew.

10. Toxicity:

• Dendrolobium umbellatum is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it’s always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.

By following these care guidelines, your Dendrolobium umbellatum Aurea, Yellow Desmodium should thrive and provide a vibrant splash of yellow to your garden or landscape.