about the product
Phyllanthus mirabilis is a rare caudex plant native to Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. In nature, it grows around limestone mountains, rocky cliffs and seasonally dry habitats.
This species is loved for its woody swollen caudex and delicate green leaves, which can fold together at night. During cooler months, it may slow down or drop its leaves, then grow back when the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
sizing
Size approximately 150 mm tall, around 23 g / 0.023 kg (equivalent to around 1–2 years old)
Note: As it is currently winter in Australia, your plant may naturally shed some or all of its leaves. This is a normal part of its seasonal dormancy, allowing it to conserve energy and develop a larger caudex before producing new leaves and flowers in spring and summer.
If grown outdoors, reduce watering to once every 1–2 weeks. If grown indoors under grow lights, water about once a week, ensuring the growing medium dries out between waterings.
CARING TIPS
Note
The following care guide is suggested based on the weather conditions of NSW and VIC. For other Australian states, please use this as a reference and adjust according to your local climate.
Origin
Indochina
Laos, Myanmar & Thailand
Wet tropical habitat
Limestone ridges, humid forest edges & seasonally wet areas
Life Cycle & Dormancy
Spring – Summer → active growth
Usually grows best from around September to March
Produces fresh green leaves from the branches during warm weather
Leaves may fold together at night or during stress
Autumn – Winter → semi-dormant to dormant
May drop most or all leaves from June to August
Leaf drop during winter is normal due to cooler nights and lower light
Soil
Fast draining mix
Mineral-rich soil with a small amount of organic matter recommended
Pumice, lava rock, coarse sand, bark & small gravel work well
Avoid heavy, compacted or waterlogged potting mix
Watering
Water deeply only when the mix is almost fully dry
Spring – Summer → regular watering during warm active growth
During humid or rainy weeks, wait longer between watering
Autumn → gradually reduce watering
Winter → reduce watering heavily, especially from June to August
Do not keep the soil wet on cold, cloudy or rainy days
Light
Bright indirect light to gentle morning sun
Morning sun is ideal
Strong filtered light encourages healthy leaves and compact growth
Protect from harsh afternoon sun during heatwaves
Best grown with bright light, warmth and good airflow
Temperature
Best: 22–30°C
Winter nights can be too cool and damp for active growth
Winter minimum: 12–15°C recommended
Keep warm, lightly dry and well ventilated during cold periods
Move indoors or under cover during long rainy winter weeks
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Plant may drop its leaves during shipping or in Sydney’s cooler months, especially from June to August. This is normal, as the plant is deciduous and can naturally enter dormancy during autumn and winter. New leaves will usually grow back once the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
After arrival, soak the plant in water or diluted HB101 / Seasol for 3–5 hours. Then keep it in shade for 1–2 days to recover and adapt gently.
For live plants, we ship them bareroot (roots only, without soil and pot). This helps make the shipping process smoother, faster, and safer, while also greatly reducing the risk of root rot during transit.
Pots, soil mixes, and fertilizers will be packed carefully and shipped securely.
You can read the full shipping policy here.