Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Also known as Lagoon-Spurge · Long-Stalk Leaf-Flower · Long-Stalk Phyllanthus
Phyllanthus tenellus is a small, fast-growing annual herb native to the Mascarene Islands, often cultivated for its delicate foliage and small, ephemeral flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some direct sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures, between 18-24°C.
Light
25% intensity
Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems. Pruning can be done year-round, but major pruning is best done in early spring before new growth emerges.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 7-10 cm cuttings in spring or summer, remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep moist until roots form.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mascarene Island Leaf-Flower (Phyllanthus tenellus)
Where Mascarene Island Leaf-Flower (Phyllanthus tenellus) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus | Phyllanthus |
| Species | Phyllanthus tenellus |
Similar in genus Phyllanthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data