Source: Wikimedia Commons
Phyllanthus mirabilis
IntermediatePhyllanthus mirabilis
A small Thai shrub with twisted branches and pinnate leaves whose base swells into a caudex while young. At dusk the leaflets fold together in pairs like butterfly wings and open again in the morning.
About
Phyllanthus mirabilis is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the Phyllanthaceae, native to Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. In Thailand it grows on limestone ridges and cliffs in provinces such as Chiang Mai and Saraburi, at 100–1,000 m, and receives plenty of water in the rainy season. Very few Phyllanthus form a caudex, and this is the best-known one. It slowly grows up to 8 m tall with a trunk 30 cm across, but plants on dry sites stay stunted and develop a swollen base with contorted branches. Planted in rich soil in the ground, the caudex fades and the plant becomes an ordinary tree, so it is grown in pots and trained like a bonsai to keep its caudiciform shape. The glossy pinnate leaves are coppery red when young and fold at night. It is deciduous in winter. Plants with a caudex more than 10 cm across are said to be several decades old. The IUCN Red List category is Least Concern. In Japan potted plants are sold online as foliage plants, and seed is also available.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Phyllanthus mirabilis
The Phyllanthus mirabilis lives Long-lived (a caudex over 10 cm across takes several decades).
Size of the Phyllanthus mirabilis
The Phyllanthus mirabilis grows to Up to 8 m tall and 30 cm across in the wild; stays small in a pot.
Basic Info
Origin
Thailand, Laos and Myanmar
Lifespan
Long-lived (a caudex over 10 cm across takes several decades)
Size
Up to 8 m tall and 30 cm across in the wild; stays small in a pot
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeding in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It does not need much sun; grow it in bright, light shade.
Watering
With an open, free-draining mix it can be watered generously in the growing season: water until it drains, then let the mix dry somewhat.
Temperature & Overwintering
It drops its leaves in winter. Cut watering to about once a month, and stop altogether when temperatures fall to around 10°C.
Soil & Repotting
Use a rich but free-draining mix. Keep it in a pot and train it like a bonsai; planted in the ground the caudex fades.
Propagation
Propagate from seed, or from stem or root cuttings.
Pests & Cautions
Space plants apart so air can move between the branches and leaves.
Phyllanthus mirabilis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Phyllanthus mirabilis?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the lifespan of Phyllanthus mirabilis?
The average lifespan of Phyllanthus mirabilis is Long-lived (a caudex over 10 cm across takes several decades). With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Phyllanthus mirabilis get?
The mature size of Phyllanthus mirabilis is Up to 8 m tall and 30 cm across in the wild; stays small in a pot. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Phyllanthus mirabilis?
Phyllanthus mirabilis: watering & fertilizer — Light feeding in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Phyllanthus mirabilis?
The price of Phyllanthus mirabilis varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Phyllanthus mirabilis / IUCN Red List category via GBIF: Phyllanthus mirabilis
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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