Our featured plant today is a rare species!

We’re going to talk about the Cercestis mirabilis. Also called the Wondrous cerces, the Cercestis mirabilis belongs to the Araceae family and is an epiphytic climbing plant native to African rainforests; don’t worry. You can still buy one online!

The Wondrous cerces has green arrowhead-shaped foliage with silvery or creamy-white variegations. These gleaming leaves grow pretty large and have prominent veins, making the plant even more beautiful.

Despite Cercestis mirabilis being a rare plant, it still has similar care requirements to other tropical plants.

Here is some general information regarding this plant:

Let’s learn more about this beauty from Africa!

Why Is The Cercestis Mirabilis Such A Rare Plant?

via felmiirwan

The Cercestis mirabilis grows along tall trees in its native habitat that can reach up to 15 feet tall. When you cultivate it indoors, however, it typically grows as a shrub and can get 2 – 5 feet tall. Nonetheless, you can still prune the plant to maintain a specific size and shape.

This plant’s large variegated leaves make it unique, with their deep veins and an alluring green color adorned by silvery variegations. The foliage starts losing its variegations as they mature.

Stalks, commonly known as petioles, support these leaves. These petioles affix the leaf’s basal lamina to the stem. The stem is liable for supporting and distributing nutrients and water after being gathered by the roots, serving as the plant’s axis.

However, the foliage isn’t the only beautiful thing about this plant. The Wondrous cerces also produces pretty flowers and edible fruit!

Similar to Peace lily varieties, this alluring plant from Africa generates a spathe and spadix. The spadix grows about 2 inches and is shorter and thicker than the spathe. The spathe typically grows about 4 inches long and is pale green to yellow.

Edible pink and red berries, rich in vitamins and nutrients, appear once this plant is pollinated. As a matter of fact, people have used other plant parts for medicinal purposes. For example, some people use the sap and leaves to treat heart and liver problems.

Taking Care Of The Cercestis Mirabilis

via chanandcher

The care requirements for this plant are pretty straightforward; you need only water it occasionally and keep it nice and warm. You can grow this plant outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9 – 11.

However, I would advise growing the plant in pots if you live in a region with lower temperatures. This will make it easy to transfer it indoors when the weather gets colder.

Let’s take a closer look at the care guide for Cercestis mirabilis.

Light Requirements

Bright indirect light is crucial for the Cercestis mirabilis to grow and thrive to its full potential. The plant can’t withstand direct sunlight exposure for long periods, so you’ll need to find an ideal location where it can receive enough indirect sunlight.

It would be best to place your plant next to an east-facing window since direct sunlight in the early morning or late afternoon isn’t intense enough to burn the plant’s beautiful leaves.

You can put up sheer curtains to block the sunlight or move the plant a few feet away from the window if your house only has west-facing windows. Alternatively, you can use artificial lighting if your home isn’t getting enough sunlight; just don’t put your plant too close, or it’ll get burnt.

Temperature Requirements

The Cercestis mirabilis isn’t frost-hardy and doesn’t cope well with temperature fluctuations. It thrives in temperatures between 65 – 85℉.

The plant can freeze to death if you keep it outdoors when the temperatures are significantly lower. That’s why bringing your plant indoors is advisable once it starts getting slightly colder.

Temperature fluctuations aren’t an issue outdoors only but indoors as well. For example, you shouldn’t place this plant near drafty areas, including vents, air conditioners, or open windows.

Heat sources are equally bad, so keep it from them as well. This includes space heaters, fireplaces, or radiators.

Water Requirements

via frun_plants

The Cercestis mirabilis can tolerate some drought, though it flourishes when watered regularly. Only water this African beauty when the top soil is dry to prevent overwatering and root rot.

Sometimes, your plant won’t need much moisture (for example, during winter), so you shouldn’t settle on a rigid watering schedule. Watering your plant at the same rate will lead to overwatering and other serious concerns.

Pour water at the plant’s base until you see the excess water coming out of the drainage holes. It would be best to use rainwater or filtered water since these sources don’t have chlorine or fluoride. These chemicals can accumulate in your plant and cause poor moisture absorption and nutrients. 

You can also use tap water for watering if it doesn’t have a lot of these substances. You can let your tap water sit in the sun for at least a day to let the chlorine evaporate, making it slightly safer.

Humidity Requirements

The native habitat of this plant is pretty humid. However, the Cercestis mirabilis isn’t too picky regarding humidity levels.

It can withstand humidity levels as high as 90% but also low humidity of 40%. However, the plant typically flourishes in moderate humidity of 50%.

There are several methods you can use to improve humidity indoors. You can make a pebble tray, mist your plant regularly, or invest in a humidifier.

Soil Requirements

This aroid plant prefers a well-draining soil mixture. Luckily, you can prepare a potting soil on your own that these plants can thrive in.

For instance, combine equal parts of orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss-based substrate to provide ideal moisture retention and drainage.

You can also make the soil more fertile by adding some worm castings, which will help you skip fertilization for some time.

Fertilizer Requirements

Although the Cercestis mirabilis isn’t a heavy feeder, it’ll benefit from a bit of fertilizer. You should fertilize this plant only during the growing season.

You can use an organic or a standard indoor plant fertilizer. To avoid burning your plant’s roots, dilute these fertilizers to half-strength.

The best option is probably slow-release pellets. They feed your plants gradually over time, so you won’t have to fertilize your Cercestis mirabilis more than twice yearly if you use a similar product.

Repotting

via littlebotany

The Wondrous cerces is a slow-growing plant, so you won’t need to repot it every season. I recommend repotting your plant anytime you notice the roots coming out through the drainage holes or once every two to three years.

Spring and summer is usually the best time to repot this plant. This gives the plant adequate time to adjust to its new surroundings.

Use a plant pot with drainage holes, which should be 1 – 2 sizes larger. Impermeable and oversized containers can lead to waterlogging. You should always prepare your materials before repotting.

When the time for repotting your plant comes, remove it from its pot and spread its roots if it’s pot-bound.

Put some potting material in the bottom of the new container before placing your plant in it. Fill your planter with the substrate until you completely cover the root system. Move your plant to an area with plenty of filtered sunlight after giving it enough water.

Pruning

Trimming off those majestic green leaves may be challenging, but cutting off the top will encourage your plant’s growth and assist you in maintaining its size.

However, take away only a quarter of the plant at a time. This can lead to stress and hamper the plant’s growth.

You should permanently remove dirty, old, and diseased leaves since they only take up space where new foliage should grow and harm your plant. Your plant will also look lifeless and sad with such foliage.

Propagation

You can propagate the Cercestis mirabilis using the air layering method or stem cuttings. Propagating by stem cuttings is relatively easy, while the air layering technique is a little more complicated. Still, both ways will yield positive results for you.

Here are some instructions on both these techniques:

Air Layering Technique

1. Locate a leaf node on the part of the plant you want to propagate. It would be best to pick a node below two leaves so that it’ll already have attractive leaves when you cut it later.

2. Use wet sphagnum moss to form a ball-like piece and wrap it around the node and stake before wrapping it in cling film to keep it in place.

3. Occasionally mist the moss and leave the ball’s top open if you would like. You can also leave the container’s bottom empty to enable the roots to extend if they need extra space.

4. Once the root system has developed, cut below them and move your young plant into a new container. This is typically after 2 – 3 weeks.

Stem Cuttings 

1. Choose a healthy stem with aerial roots.

2. Submerge the cutting in potting soil with good drainage or water. It would be best to replace the medium whenever it’s foggy for water propagation.

3. Place a plastic bag over your planted cuttings in the soil to trap air moisture and encourage root growth.

4. Ensure your plant receives a lot of indirect sunlight and mild temperatures and the potting soil is moist.

Common Issues

via _young_botanist_

The Wondrous cerces isn’t prone to many problems. Keep it happy and healthy, and you won’t have to deal with many issues. However, pesky pests might attack your plant if it gets weak.

Pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs will frequently attack it, causing it to deteriorate daily by consuming its sap. Dealing with these inconvenient pests as soon as you notice them is essential.

You can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them one at a time if the infestation isn’t severe; just ensure you don’t touch your plant with it since alcohol might scorch it. Alternatively, you can pick them off by hand. 

You can apply natural pesticides such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil if the infestation is severe.

Overwatering your plant will make your plant prone to plant diseases such as root rot. Repot your plant if the disease infects it, trim off damaged roots, and apply a fungicide. A new pot and fresh soil are critical, and always inspect the soil before watering to avoid giving your plant more water than it requires.

Final Thoughts

via greenparadise707

The Cercestis mirabilis is genuinely an enchanting plant. Its huge triangular leaves can transform any room in your home, making it more vibrant!

Ensure you carefully follow the growth instructions for this plant once you get a hold of it. It’s also crucial to avoid any issues that might harm your plant since this is a rare houseplant.

Sunburn, temperature fluctuations, and overwatering are problems you can easily avoid by taking good care of your plant.

You can try and propagate your plant once it becomes established!

That’s everything we have about this plant. Till next time!

Plants are the ultimate interior decor pieces, and today, we have the perfect plant that’ll add texture to your interior design and transform your home: the Boston fern.

The Boston fern has numerous cultivars, which all possess immaculate green fronds. However, the plant we want to share with you is particularly feathery and soft.

The care guide for the Fluffy Ruffle fern has some specific requirements you need to fulfill for the plant to thrive, but it becomes straightforward once you get the hang of it.

To flourish, the plant requires well-draining soil, food, sunlight, and some water!

We’ll also talk about common issues you may encounter while growing this plant and the fantastic characteristics that make people adore this fern.

But first, let’s look at the general information about this plant:

Care Guide for the Fluffy Ruffle Fern

The Fluffy Ruffle fern is a low-maintenance plant that isn’t very demanding. Plant it in a well-draining medium, water it whenever the topsoil feels dry, and ensure it gets some light.

You might need to meet extra requirements to keep this houseplant healthy, but don’t worry. There are shortcuts to getting there we’ll share with you! We’ll look at ways of increasing humidity levels, repotting, and propagation of this fern.

Lastly, pruning and cleaning are essential in the care of the Fluffy Ruffle fern. Therefore, we’ll also discuss these two needs.

The Boston fern is a stunning plant that can be used to enhance both indoor and outdoor gardens. It is also a great option for a variety of budget-friendly zen garden ideas.

You need only pay attention to the climate requirements, and you’ll be good to go!

Light Requirements

This fern is low-light tolerant, making it a perfect houseplant. The plant can also grow outside in warm regions, but you’ll have to keep in mind that direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and destroy their beauty.

To solve this, place the plant in a sheltered place, such as underneath a tree in an east-facing part of your garden. To protect your plant from the afternoon sun, you can always cover it with shade cloth or create artificial shade by manipulating the environment.

Growing the Fluffy Ruffle fern indoors doesn’t need a lot of preparation. Put your plant anywhere with indirect sunlight or near an east-facing window, and it’ll flourish.

The Boston fern is also part of low-light indoor hanging plants. As such, you can also place it in a planter facing north.

Plants need light to grow and thrive, so if you notice your plant has smaller leaves, slow growth, or is losing color, consider getting some artificial lights or gradually moving it to a brighter spot with indirect sunlight.

Water Requirements

This plant benefits from regular watering; you need to irrigate it at least once a week. However, your region’s climate will significantly influence this, so always check the soil before watering.

It would be best to water the Fluffy Ruffle fern after the soil’s top 2 – 3 inches are dry. Check for moisture using a moisture meter or your finger.

Water the plant more frequently during summertime and in hot, arid climates. You can reduce the watering frequency by half during winter since the plant will be dormant and won’t require much water.

The soil takes longer to dry since the summer sun won’t be there to evaporate all the moisture.

Don’t wet the leaves of this fern when watering it since it can cause mold and other unpleasant issues.

Water the plant until you see excess water coming out of the drainage holes, and allow it to completely drain away before emptying the tray.

Humidity Requirements

It would always help to consider the preferred moisture levels when caring for your plants. For example, the Fluffy Ruffle fern is a tropical plant that thrives in high humidity (70 – 90%). Therefore, you should raise humidity levels to this range as best as possible.

Fortunately, we have some tricks up our sleeves that require little to no additional work and will work like a charm!

Humidifier

Humidifiers are one of the best methods to raise humidity levels efficiently and quickly. You need only turn it on, and it’ll take care of the rest.

Using pebble trays and grouping plants is less reliable than a humidifier since they can’t drastically raise the air moisture.

For instance, you can increase the humidity by 7% using gravel trays, which is ideal for small plants but not larger ones, particularly in drier climates.

Misting

Spraying your plants occasionally doesn’t require too much work, and it’s a foolproof method of increasing humidity!

However, be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll create more problems for yourself. For example, constantly wet leaves encourage the growth and reproduction of fungi, which can result in powdery mildew and leaf spot.

Luckily, you can avoid these issues by spraying this fern every 2 – 3 days and letting the leaves dry between misting.

Terrarium

Growing this plant in a terrarium is a great way to create a perfect environment for its development and improve your interior decor. 

The glass walls retain moisture, which raises the humidity levels around your plants.

You don’t need to water closed terrariums more than once a month. Open the lid after a few weeks to let some fresh air in, and your Fluffy Ruffle fern will be okay.

Temperature

You can grow this plant outside if you live in a region in USDA zones 9 – 11. Accompany the plant with other fantastic evergreen ferns in the warm weather to create a breathtaking outdoor masterpiece!

Frost can kill this above-the-ground plant. However, it will bounce back come spring with new fronds.

If you live in a colder climate, it’s advisable to keep your plant indoors all year round or move it indoors when the weather starts to cool.

Room temperatures are ideal for this fern, so anything between 60 – 80℉ will be okay. Keep your thermostat at least 60℉ since temperatures lower than 50℉ can kill your plant.

Avoid keeping the plant near heaters, drafty windows, and AC vents because sudden temperature swings can cause its leaves to fall off.

Soil Requirements

This plant is convenient to grow because you can use ready-made potting mix blends, eliminating the need to make your own.

Nonetheless, knowing the type of soil this fern prefers is essential, and having the know-how to make one can come in handy when you’ve exhausted all other options.

This plant requires a fast-draining growing medium; otherwise, the soil will get clogged with water, leading to root rot.

The Fluffy Ruffle prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.0 – 6.5.

Now, you can use this information we’ve disclosed to make the preferable soil mix and provide your plants with an ideal environment.

Mix equal parts potting soil, perlite, and sphagnum peat moss. You can also add some sand for gardening. However, don’t put too much since your mix will become too draining, and you’ll have to water your fern constantly!

Fertilizer

This plant needs monthly fertilization, but it doesn’t have to be such a tedious task. Feed your Fluffy Ruffle when watering it to minimize the amount of work you should do.

Another advantage of having this plant is that you can feed it with a regular houseplant fertilizer. Dilute your fertilizer to half-strength or according to the manufacturer’s instructions on the package.

Most growers prefer slow-release fertilizers since a small amount can last 6 – 12 months when applied, depending on the strength of the fertilizer and the plant’s needs.

Repotting

This plant requires repotting every two years, even though it’s a slow grower. Replant it in a new pot 1 – 2 sizes bigger than the old one if it hasn’t reached its mature height yet.

You can leave your plant in the same pot if it hasn’t grown much since you last repotted it. However, you’ll have to use a new substrate.

A fresh growing medium is essential for adding more nutrients; your plant will appreciate it after repotting it.

Loosen the soil around the plant and carefully remove it when repotting or transferring it to a new container.

Put your plant in a new or old pot filled with fresh potting mix. Cover the roots with more soil and water it well.

Ensure your plant is well-hydrated to avoid transplant shock after moving it to a different container and medium.

Propagation

This care guide can’t be complete without its propagation guide, so we’ll look at the most straightforward way to propagate the Fluffy Ruffle fern and gift your friends a fantastic new plant!

Step 1: You can propagate this fern by offsets. As such, find a healthy offset and carefully separate its roots from the mother plant.

Pro tip. Use sterilized pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the roots if you are unable to divide the plant quickly.

Step 2: Plant the plantlet in a nursery pot filled with fresh substrate and water it well. To provide your new plant with the best growing conditions, the soil moisture should be consistent.

Step 3: To keep the humidity levels high and prevent moisture loss, which is essential for proper development, place a plastic sheet or humidity dome over your plant.

Step 4: Place your new fern in a spot with bright indirect sunlight and ensure the temperature is between 60 – 70℉.

Step 5: Once the plant starts growing, take off the humidity dome or plastic sheet. Give your plant the exact care requirements as your previous one.

Cleaning and Pruning

Pruning and cleaning are critical parts of plant care, but are frequently overlooked, particularly cleaning.

When dust sits on your plant’s leaves, it disrupts the photosynthesis process, which causes your plant to experience problems.

Put your plant under a slow, lukewarm water flow to remove the dirt. You can pat dry the leaves if you fear your plant might catch a fungal disease.

Pruning is an excellent way of strengthening your plant; yes, that’s right! Removing dead, old, discolored, and diseased leaves helps your plant to recover energy and creates new space for new leaves to grow.

New leaves are better photosynthesizing and produce more food and energy essential for development than old and dying foliage.

Common Issues with the Fluffy Ruffle Fern

You can find the Fluffy Ruffle fern in various plant collections and is an excellent companion to pothos and philodendron plants.

Similar to other evergreen plants, this fern is also susceptible to diseases and pest infestations. As such, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of copper fungicide and neem oil can be helpful.

For example, copper fungicide is more effective in quickly eliminating fungi from plants than neem oil. However, neem oil can be used to eliminate fungi as well as pests.

You need to decide which product will fit your preferences regarding the plant.

The following section will highlight various diseases and pests that affect this fern to help you treat your plant.

Pests

Scales and spider mites are the most common pests that affect this plant, and even though they are very dangerous, they’re also easy to deal with.

Move your Ruffle Fern away from your other plants when you notice a single bug to avoid spreading the infestation.

If there are few pests, use a Q-tip dipped in neem oil or rubbing alcohol to eliminate them quickly. However, a significant pest infestation will need more effective methods such as pesticides. 

You can also clean the dust on your plant by putting it under a stream of running water. However, you’ll have to resort to insecticides if that doesn’t work.

Diseases

Root rot is the most common disease that affects this plant. Root rot is a deadly infection, and you must be very cautious!

This fungal disease is caused by overwatering, and it affects the plant’s roots by limiting their ability to uptake nutrients and water.

That’s why plants suffering from root rot stop growing, start to droop, and become brown or yellow, or their color fades.

Check the soil if you notice these signs. If it’s wet, take your Fluffy Ruffle fern out of its pot and carefully inspect the roots.

Dispose of the dark and mushy roots, spray the remaining roots with a fungicide, and repot the plant in a sterilized container with fresh substrate.

You can save your plant by propagating some healthy parts if the disease has advanced and already spread to the plant’s stem.

Main Features of The Nephrolepis Exaltata

The easy care guide for this plant will make an excellent addition to your green army!

The plant has bushy and silky leaves, and once you see them, you’ll realize what a drought-loving succulent it is.

Tripinnate fronds are pointed at the end and grow in dense clumps.

This plant produces sterile spores that can’t be used for reproduction. However, there’ll always be enough offsets to grow and have new plants for your hanging baskets.

Commonly Asked Questions

Now that we’re finished with the care guide for this fern, let’s look at the answers to commonly asked questions to improve your knowledge further.

What does wilting indicate in a ruffle fern?

Wilting and drooping of the ruffle fern are usually caused by overwatering, so you must look for underlying issues.

Your first thought about the cause might be frequent watering, but that’s not always the case. Pots without drainage holes and heavy soils can cause water clogging, even as you water your fern once weekly.

Water that collects in the tray is another thing we often overlook. After irrigating your plant, don’t let it sit in a tray filled with water.

Fortunately, you can easily fix these problems.

To keep your fern healthy, you can either repot it in fresh, well-draining substrate and a pot with drainage holes, or water it only when the topsoil feels dry.

Keep in mind you have to empty the tray 30 minutes after watering, at most.

Overwatering can also cause root rot, stunted growth, and yellow leaves, so dealing with it before these issues arise is better.

What are the benefits of the Nephrolepis exaltata?

The air purifying ability of this plant is one of its main benefits, so you’ll have a beautiful-looking plant and fresh air in your home.

Obviously, you’ll need a couple of other plants to effect some noticeable change, but they’re still wondrous and will heal your psyche.

Gardening and plants have been proven to reduce depression, anxiety, and stress.

You can introduce these plants into your zen gardens and create the perfect relaxation nook.

Final Remarks

The Fluffy Ruffle fern has a simple care routine: feed your plant once monthly and provide it with mild temperatures, high humidity, moist and well-draining soil, and indirect sunlight.

This fern is slow-growing, so repotting will only be once yearly.

You need only prune any leaves that aren’t looking their best and wipe the dust off the triangular leaves, and you’ll have a healthy-looking plant!

We’ve also discussed some common diseases and pests you may encounter when growing this fern and the remedies that’ll keep your plant healthy in no time!

The article also included the main features of this plant to give you an idea as to why the plant is loved by many.

That’s all for now, bye! 

Whether it’s adding a soothing accent wall, utilizing ambient lights, or cozying up the bed with a bedspread, we all aim to create a relaxing bedroom atmosphere. Indoor houseplants are one of the best ways to enhance your bedroom’s decor, as well as its environment.

One big challenge most people face when choosing indoor plants is selecting the right one that will thrive in their specific environment and keeping the plant healthy. For instance, most blooming plants typically prefer more light by a window, so placing them near south or east-facing windows would be ideal.

On the other hand, green plants prefer ambient room light. The best way to solve this headache is doing enough research on the houseplant you want beforehand, and ensuring you pick a plant that you’ll love and want to care for.

We’ve compiled some of the best houseplants that are guaranteed to add color, texture, and life to your bedroom; not to mention improve your space’s air quality, while requiring minimal effort for maintenance.

Take a look!

1. Prayer Plant

Calatheas (peacock plants) have some of the most decorative foliage, with their immaculately striped leaves coming in shades of white, green, pink, and yellow. Their leaves are known for lying flat during the day and folding upwards at night, hence the name “prayer plant”—it’s almost as if the plant is praying!

Prayer plants thrive in summer weather since they’re big fans of warm, humid conditions, with the ideal temperature being between 64 – 73℉ (18 – 24℃). They also benefit from misting every now and then.

One common mistake associated with calatheas is overwatering. The amount of sunlight your houseplant receives during the day is actually more important than following a strict watering routine. A common sign of overwatered plants is the yellowing of leaves.

Place your prayer plant in direct but not strong light—preferably near a north or east facing window—for the best leaf coloring. Also, ensure the soil dries out between waterings to minimize the risk of overwatering. 

2. Monstera Deliciosa

You’ve probably come across the glossy leaves of Monstera deliciosa (commonly known as the Swiss cheese plant) while scrolling through Instagram—and what’s not to like about the tropical vibes that this beauty brings!

Monsteras are native to Central America and Mexico, especially in rainforests, where there’s bright light shaded by tall trees, heavy, occasional rainfall, and high humidity. You only need to replicate these warm and humid conditions, and you’ll have a fantastic indoor plant that makes a big impact.

Moss cover poles will also come in handy when training these climbers, mimicking their natural tendency to cling onto trees as they do in the wild.

Monsteras prefer warm temperatures between 64 – 80℉ (18 – 27℃) but can tolerate colder conditions down to 53℉ (12℃); however, keep your plant away from cold drafts. The plant can grow up to 78 inches indoors, but your pot size can limit its growth due to aerial roots—repot it if you want a larger plant.

3. ZZ Plant

If you’ve been looking for a houseplant for your dresser or nightstand, then the Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ plant) is a must have. 

Its bold, upright form and dark, glossy slender leaves with distinct undulating edges make this striking plant a favorite for many plant enthusiasts. 

The ZZ plant is very low-maintenance, tolerating extremely low light levels and irregular watering. The plant is also happy to be root bound, so regular repotting won’t be required. This drought-tolerant plant prefers temperatures between 59 – 75℉, and its tall foliage grows up to 3 ft high.

The ZZ plant is also famous for its air-purifying capabilities; you can say goodbye to those harmful compounds in your bedroom, including xylene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and benzene!

Feed your plant with a liquid fertilizer once a month in spring and summer to give it an extra growth boost. If you love to make a statement, go for the Raven ZZ variety—its dark, almost black leaves will instantly become a focal point in your bedroom.

4. Peace Lily

The peace lily’s pure white flowers and glossy tear-shaped leaves make this low-maintenance beauty from the South American tropics one of the most popular indoor plants.

The plant prefers moist soil and has a high transpiration rate that helps humidify the air, promoting better airflow which assists its plant parents breathe better. If you notice drooping leaves, this is a clear indication your plant is thirsty and needs watering.

The peace lily thrives in temperatures between 64 – 75℉ but can tolerate chilly conditions down to 53℉. The plant grows up to 30 in (75 cm) high.

Place your peace lily in a spot with bright, indirect light for the healthiest deep green leaves; however, avoid direct sunlight, as it will scorch the leaves.

5. Pothos

Pothos are low-maintenance plants that can actually thrive on neglect! These prolific, large-leaved climbers have fleshy stems that can reach up to 65 ft (20 m) when grown outdoors but will likely have a much lower height indoors; you can trim them if necessary.

There are numerous different foliage colors to choose from, ranging from solid dark green to bright neon green. There are also variegated varieties whose leaves have streaks of white, yellow, and even shades of silver that are sure to add real impact in your bedroom!

Pothos prefer humid conditions, but you should only water your plants when the top two inches of the soil are dry. They thrive in room temperatures ranging from 50 – 73℉ (10 – 24℃). If you notice the leaves curling, your plant is probably thirsty. As for the yellowing of leaves, this is a sign of overwatering or underwatering.

6. Philodendron

Philodendrons are large-leaved climbers that hail from the Caribbean—if you want a tall, upright plant that won’t feel invasive, look no further! This plant prefers bright light but can also tolerate a bit of shade.

If you have a mossy pole, you can train this natural and prolific climber, or use it in a raised planter for a stunning look. Philodendrons thrive in various humidity levels, but high humidity environments help them develop larger leaves.

Another way to increase these plants’ foliage is by pinching out leaf nodes on single stems. This promotes more branches and off shoots, resulting in more leaves.

This plant can grow up to 13 ft, so trimming may be required based on your preferences. Philodendrons thrive in temperatures between 60 – 75℉ (15 – 24℃), and since they prefer humid environments, they’ll benefit from occasional misting. 

With at least over 480 species of philodendron, finding a variety that suits you is easy peasy!

7. Snake Plant

The snake plant’s striped and twisting sword-like foliage is a lovely addition to any bedroom. Also called mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant’s excellent drought-tolerant capabilities has made it a popular houseplant for decades.

Even better news, there are numerous varieties to choose from, such as Masoniana and trifasciata varieties, which can grow up to 3 – 4 ft (91 – 121 cm) high, and dwarf varieties like Sansevieria fischeri, which reach 16 inches (40 cm).

Snake plants have a relatively slow growth rate, with brighter conditions encouraging faster growth; they can also cope with low-light conditions. These plants are also pretty easy to propagate.

Water once weekly during spring and summer, but change the regimen to once monthly in fall and winter, as the plant will be dormant. Snake plants will die if exposed to temperatures below 50℉ or frost.

These plants are well known for their air-purifying qualities which are believed to promote better sleep, making them a perfect choice for your bedroom!

Enhance your bedroom’s ambiance with these air-purifying and low-maintenance plants.

The snake plant and ZZ plant thrive in low light, while the peace lily adds elegance and filters toxins.

Pothos and philodendrons bring trailing greenery, and the prayer plant adds unique patterned leaves. Monstera deliciosa creates a bold statement, making your space feel fresh and vibrant!

Houseplants are one of the most versatile decor items you can add to your space. They liven up a space by adding a touch of greenery, can also improve visual interest, and can be matched with your interior to complement your theme. 

While they may be an essential décor item, choosing the right houseplant is instrumental in determining whether the plants survive. Here are some of the most attractive houseplants you can add to your indoor space. 

Take a look!

1. Tricolor Hoya Carnosa

This wax plant is not only beautiful but also easy to care for. Its fast-growing tendrils will quickly turn heads as soon as they start to droop. 

The plant leaves start out pink, but older leaves are either white, fringed in deep green, or almost entirely white, hence the name tricolor. 

Besides its beautiful leaves, the Hoya also produces fragrant star-shaped leaves that will surely add to its beauty. Water the plant occasionally and place it in an area with bright light and slight humidity.

2. Orchids

Orchids are among the most common houseplants, mainly because of their colorful flowers. They come in various colors, so you can choose the right color to match your home’s theme. 

You can place these beautiful flowers in a vase or grow the plant in small planters. Orchids are versatile and can even act as centerpieces for your interior space. Since these plants prefer high humidity, don’t forget to mist them occasionally or grow them in areas with high humidity, such as the bathroom.

3. Haworthia

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance house plant, Harwothia is the ideal choice. This compact succulent thrives with minimal watering and can even survive without direct light. Its pointed green leaves with small white bumps or stripes will significantly enhance your aesthetics.

Since this plant is succulent, it retains much of its water on the leaves, so you only have to water it when the soil is completely dry or every three to four weeks.

Humidity isn’t a significant concern since the plant can survive in high or low-humidity areas. However, you must grow the plant in an area with bright, indirect light.

4. Poinsettias

Christmas Poinsettias aren’t just beautiful during the festive seasons; they can also make an integral part of your decor when grown as an everyday houseplant. Since they come in various colors, you can find a plant for almost any color scheme. 

Traditionally, the flowers come in bright red, but you can find other varieties, such as white, pink, or orange. Ensure the plant receives at least 4 to 6 hours of indirect sunlight daily. Most importantly, don’t overwater or underwater the plant, as this could cause root rot or dry leaves respectively. 

Poinsettias make ideal houseplants since they are neither harmful to animals nor humans.

5. Cyclamen

Most plants go dormant in winter due to dropping temperatures, but with Cyclamen, you can still maintain some greenery indoors. Unlike most plants, Cyclamen prefers cool weather and is well suited for the cold period. 

This colorful plant thrives in moist but not overly wet soil, so exercise some restraint when watering it. Even though Cyclamen prefer cool weather, they won’t survive in extremely low temperatures, hence the need to be grown indoors during winter.

6. Swiss Cheese Plant

This unique Monstera variety has leaves that develop holes and perforations as the plant ages, resembling Swiss cheese, hence the name. 

Monstera adansonii is one of the most unique houseplants. Although it has a high growth rate and may grow to about 10 to 13 feet, the Swiss cheese plant is more manageable indoors, reaching about 8 feet. 

Grow the plant in well-draining soil, water it regularly, and prune it if necessary. Monstera adansonii is an ideal houseplant because it can survive in indirect sunlight.

7. Christmas Cactus

The Christmas cactus is one of the most famous festive plants; no wonder it makes a popular holiday gift! The plant gets its name from its blooms, which appear just in time for the Christmas holiday. 

With blooms ranging from red, purple, peach, and white, matching this plant to your indoors should be a piece of cake. The Christmas cacti will survive in partial sunlight but are sensitive to root rot, so avoid overwatering the plant.

8. Norfolk Island Pine

The Norfolk Island pine is one of the most decorative houseplants you can grow. Not only can you use the plant for decorations during the festive season, but it’ll also maintain its greenery for most of the year. 

Being a tropical plant, the Island pine requires high levels of humidity. However, it can survive even in less bright spots with indirect light. You can use a humidifier or mist the plant every once in a while to increase the humidity.

Keep the plant away from areas with temperature fluctuations, which may interfere with its growth.

9. Snake Plant

One of the trendiest houseplants, the snake plant, is continually getting attention in most indoor spaces due to its unique shape, color, and ease of care. To grow your snake plant, all you need to do is find some well-draining potting soil. 

This house plant thrives in indirect sunlight and with minimal watering. Exposing the plant to intense direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so ensure the plant is well-shaded from the midday sun.

10. Fiddle-Leaf Fig

The Fiddle-leaf fig certainly isn’t the easiest houseplant to grow, but its unique tree-like form and large leaves make it worth the trouble. This hardy plant is well adapted to indoor lighting conditions and temperatures and will survive even with less-than-ideal growth conditions. 

Grow the plant in well-drained, nutritious soil and keep the soil moist. The plant may also require some support, so if you’re growing it in a container indoors, it’s advisable to add a trellis. Prune any dead or damaged leaves as soon as you notice them to promote new growth.

11. Birds of Paradise

Birds of Paradise is another tropical plant that thrives indoors. Although it may be relatively larger than other houseplants, it is easy to grow and will add a bit of tropical flair to your space. 

Its large, broad leaves are dramatic, making this plant ideal even as a centerpiece. When growing it indoors, place your plant where it can receive plenty of indirect sunlight. 

The plant prefers well-draining soil that can retain moisture, and it does well in typical household humidity, making it suited for most rooms in your house.

12. Lavender

Other than its beautiful blue flowers, lavender also exudes a lovely aroma and can be used to flavor tea or as a natural fragrance enhancer in your room. There are several varieties of this herbaceous perennial, with the dwarf varieties ideal for indoor spaces. 

One of the reasons that lavender is a good houseplant is that you can grow it all year long, no matter the season. If you want to use it for its fantastic fragrance, harvest the flowers just after they bloom before the aroma fades.

13. Holly

Holly’s shiny green leaves and bright red flowers make it a sight to behold indoors. While this shrub prefers natural light, it can also do well with bright, indirect sunlight. 

Place your plant in the east or west corner of the house where it can receive plenty of natural light. You can also discreetly use reflective surfaces to boost the level of indirect sunlight. To realize the best results, follow a consistent watering schedule and avoid waterlogging the plant.

14. String of Pearls

String of Pearls is probably one of the most unique succulents. The tiny pea shaped leaves of the plant are one of its unique features. These leaves attach to trailing stems that will spill over the sides of a hanging basket or a plant, just like a string of pearls would. 

In addition to its uniquely shaped leaves, this plant also produces white flowers in spring with an aromatic cinnamon scent, adding beauty and fragrance to your space.

15. Geraniums

Often considered an outdoor plant, geraniums can add immeasurable beauty to your indoors if you grow them right. In addition to their beautiful bright red flowers, some varieties of geraniums are also scented. 

Geraniums have beautiful fragrances that mimic roses, fruits, spices, and pines. The scent is released when you rub a leaf between your fingers. Like most plants on this list, geraniums will maintain their evergreen color with little to no leaf loss, even in cold seasons like autumn and winter. 

Water the plant frequently and increase the watering as temperatures rise to maintain its lush green color.

16. African Violet

Native to Tanzania and the East African region, African violets are one of the most desirable houseplants to grow, and for good reason. They’re compact and low-growing; hence, they will require minimal space. They also flower several times a year. 

Did we mention they come in a variety of flower colors and different leaf forms? Their bright, fuzzy-like leaves help retain water, so you won’t have to water them frequently. However, it would help to expose the plants to the breeze occasionally so they don’t get stuffy. 

17. Anthurium

Anthuriums are famous not only for their repeated flowering but also for their beautiful waxy heart-shaped leaves. Native to Central America, this tropical plant does well indoors due to its specialized care needs. 

They do well in warm, brightly lit areas but away from direct sunlight. The plant is from the tropics and does well in areas with high humidity levels, so adding one to your bathroom or kitchen is a welcome idea. 

In their natural habitat, anthuriums grow on other plants. When growing them indoors, you should ensure the soil is well drained. 

18. Bromeliad

Bromeliads are known for their beautiful multi-colored foliage, which comes in red, green, purple, orange, and yellow. They are attractive plants that are easy to care for under average home conditions. There are over 2000 species of this plant, so finding one that suits your needs should be easy. 

Grow the plants in well-draining soil, preferably a mixture of potting soil and sand. Water the plant only when the soil dries out. Shield the plant from intense direct light, which may damage the leaves.

Add beauty and greenery to your home with these stunning houseplants.

Orchids and cyclamen bring delicate blooms, while poinsettias and Christmas cactus add seasonal charm.

The Swiss cheese plant and fiddle-leaf fig create bold statements, and the snake plant thrives with minimal care.

Norfolk Island pine and tricolor hoya carnosas offer unique textures, making any space feel vibrant and inviting!

Ficus umbellata is kind of a new species of ficus and it has become quite a popular houseplant for the last couple of years.

The plant has become a common occurrence in most homes across Japan, with most people loving it for its significant leaves and capricious appearance; this has led to the rise of its common nickname, “umbrella fig tree.”

Similar to its closely related species, the fiddle leaf fig, ficus umbellata, possesses a thin trunk that has large, waxy leaves.

The leaves are slightly thinner than those of a fiddle leaf fig and are heart-shaped with long, fragile petioles. The final appearance is dainty and fairly heavenly, making it the perfect houseplant to adorn your home.

You should have no difficulties caring for the ficus umbellata if you’ve grown a ficus before. The plant thrives in warm temperatures, prefers regular watering, isn’t picky about pruning or fertilization, and enjoys a bright spot. Similar to all other plants in the Ficus genus, the Ficus umbellata is classified as toxic and unfit for pet and human consumption.

Let’s take a look at some of the general information about the Ficus umbellata:

Care Guide for the Ficus Umbellata

The following are the primary care requirements for growing the umbrella fig tree:

• Plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
• Keep in warm, humid conditions.
• Pot in a loose, well-draining growing medium.
• Allow the top few inches of your substrate to dry out between waterings.

Light Requirements

Ensuring your ficus umbellata is receiving enough light is one of the most critical factors in its care guide. Just like other ficus species, the umbrella fig tree loves plenty of bright, indirect light. Therefore, you should place your plant near a bright window but avoid keeping it in direct sunlight since its leaves are susceptible to sunburn after being exposed for prolonged periods.

Temperature and Humidity Requirements

Similar to most ficus, the umbrella fig tree flourishes in warm temperatures and above-average humidity, making it ideal for indoor growing. The umbellata isn’t frost tolerant, so keeping temperatures between 65 – 85% and humidity above 50% would be best.

Water Requirements

The ficus umbellata requires frequent watering to thrive, but it’s also prone to overwatering. Allow the top two inches of soil to be dry to the touch between waterings before watering thoroughly. Ensure your pot has enough drainage holes to get rid of the excess water or else you’ll risk losing your plant due to root rot.

Soil Requirements

It would be best if you planted the umbrella fig tree in a substrate that’s well-draining but can retain some moisture. Combine equal parts of indoor potting soil, orchid bark mix, and perlite to get the perfect mix. You can also use a cactus and succulent potting mix as a substitute.

Fertilizer Requirements

The ficus umbellata appreciates regular fertilization during the active growing season. Give your umbellata a balanced houseplant fertilizer once a month during watering in spring and summer to foster strong, healthy growth.

Pruning

You don’t necessarily need to prune your ficus umbellata. However, it’s a viable option if you plan to control the plant’s size and shape as it grows. Pruning encourages the tree to branch, giving it a fuller appearance as it matures.

Ensure you wait until spring and summer if you plan to prune your umbellata when the plant is actively growing. Remember to use sharp, clean, and sterilized pruning shears or scissors to avoid spreading diseases or bacteria as you cut your plant.

Propagation

Propagating the umbrella fig tree is an excellent way to upcycle trimmings from pruning or to grow new plants. Stem cuttings in water (rooting branch) are the easiest method to propagate the umbellata.

Make sure you have the following items before you begin: a pot, well-draining potting soil, some water, a jar or vase, and a pair of pruning shears or scissors. Here are the instructions for propagating the ficus umbellata:

Step 1: Using your pair of pruning shears or scissors, take a stem cutting from a healthy umbrella fig tree; ensure the cutting has between 3 to 5 nodes and at least one leaf.

Step 2: Discard any leaves at the bottom of the cutting since this part will be submerged in water.

Step 3: Fill the vase or jar with room temperature water and put your cutting in the water. Make sure at least one node is submerged.

Step 4: Place the container in a warm spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Refresh the water once weekly, and you should begin noticing the cutting starting to root after several weeks.

Step 5: You can move the plant from water to soil once the roots have sprouted and are established. This typically takes between 1 – 2 months.

Step 6: Fill your pot with a well-draining substrate and plant the rooted cutting in it. Then, pat the soil around it down firmly.

Step 7: Provide your freshly planted cutting with a frequent watering regime, keeping the soil evenly moist for the first 1 – 2 weeks; this helps the roots acclimate from water to soil.

Potting and Repotting

You only need to repot the ficus umbellata once it has grown out of its old pot, and you might find it to be slightly rootbound. As such, depending on the plant’s growth rate, you’ll only need to repot it once every 2 – 3 years. One way of knowing whether your plant is in need of a new pot is noticing roots circling inside of the pot or growing from your pot’s drainage holes.

Like most houseplants, the best time to repot your plant is during spring and summer, its active growing season. Your new planting container should be at least 2 – 4 inches larger than the previous one to avoid incidences of overwatering your umbellata.

Gently take out the plant from its container, shake out as much of the old potting soil as you can, and then fill your new pot with fresh potting soil before planting your umbellata. Water your plant thoroughly before placing it back in its original spot.

You might notice your umbellata developing a few yellow leaves after repotting, but this shouldn’t be of much concern; the plant is just adjusting to its new environment. Your plant should resume growing normally once it recovers from the shock.

Common Pests and Diseases

The umbrella fig tree is susceptible to a few common houseplant diseases and pests. Some of the common pests that attack this plant include scale and mealybugs, which enjoy sucking the plant’s milky sap. The umbellata is also prone to root rot, which is caused by overwatering. Some common indicators of root rot in this plant include the rapid loss of leaves and mushy stems.

Common Problems with the Umbrella Fig Tree

Similar to its cousin, the fiddle leaf fig, the ficus umbellata can be picky about its environment, even though it has a pretty straightforward care guide. The following problems will affect your plant when urgent care requirements haven’t been met, including humidity, temperature, lighting, and watering.

Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves are normally not that much of a big deal, but if your umbellata is rapidly developing yellow leaves, it might be a sign of a serious problem affecting it. Yellow leaves usually indicate your plant isn’t getting enough humidity, experiencing overwatering or underwatering, or isn’t getting enough light.

Brown Leaves

If you notice your ficus umbellata developing leaves with brown, crispy spots, this can be a sign that the plant is being stressed in its environment. Lack of humidity and underwatering are the common causes of this, but too much sunlight could also cause leaf burn, which will be exhibited in a similar manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the umbrella fig tree rare?

The demand for the ficus umbellata isn’t that high in North America, so most nurseries don’t usually mass-produce this plant. However, the plant isn’t particularly considered rare. You might have to search for nurseries dealing with these plants online but you’ll get one at an affordable price if you do find it.

Can the umbrella fig tree handle full sun?

The umbrella fig tree thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can also handle short periods of direct sunlight. This is best during the morning or evening when the sun isn’t too hot; harsh afternoon sunlight can scorch your plant, so it’s best to avoid it.

How big does the umbrella fig tree grow?

This ficus typically grows to about 10 – 12 feet tall indoors. You can control the plant’s size by keeping it in a smaller container to limit its growth or pruning regularly.

Adding a new plant to your nature collection without granting it a name isn’t acceptable at all!

Naming your plant makes you feel closer to it; plus, it’ll make a good joke whenever you have friends over, and you have to feed your baby Julia the whole time you’re referring to your plant!

They might not get it at first, but it’ll definitely generate some smiles after a while.

Human names aren’t the only ones you can experiment with when naming your plants; you’re allowed to be as creative as you like — you can even use a sleek catchphrase if you want!

Today, we’ll focus on some clever cactus names that may come in handy when you start to bond with your cacti collection.

Let’s get to it!

Funny Cactus Names

Cacti are one of the most straightforward plants to grow: you don’t need to worry about feeding them, they thrive wherever you place them since they aren’t choosy about lighting, and you don’t need to water them regularly.

On top of their undemanding requirements, these succulents have a lovely appearance, and they beautify spaces in their own unique way.

You can use them to adorn any place in your home, and they work exceptionally well in minimalist homes since they complement the style, and their deep green color makes them prominent focus points.

Most cacti houseplant’s names are based on their appearance. Since their surfaces are covered with small spikes that can easily hurt you, you’ll often hear words such as “spiky” or “pointy” associated with cacti plants.

Other clever names can be found in film and cinema, e.g., “prickle rick,” a reference from an animated show known as “Rick and Morty.”

Names Based on Cacti Spikes

Cacti usually don’t have leaves since their natural habitat is very dry and harsh; instead, they have spikes. These spikes lower airflow around the cacti, preventing the plants from losing water. The spikes also act as a defense mechanism against predators that might want to eat it.

The cacti spikes always look lovely, but they are very dangerous. You need to be very careful whenever you’re around these plants, especially when handling them!

If you’re a pet lover, you also need to be wary. It’s better to place your cacti strategically on top of a shelf where kids and pets can’t reach it.

If you’re a fan of cacti, it’s high time you named those spiky plants with some funny names that’ll bring some sweet chuckles among family and friends.

Here are common names based on cacti spikes:

• Ouchie
• Stingy
• Spikasaurus Rex
• Sharpie
• Pokey
• Piercy boy
• Porcupine
• Prickle
• Pointy
• Needles (like poodles)
• Porky/porkie (short for porkupine — these also have spikes all over!)
• Spiky

Name Ideas with Double Meanings

Cacti have an odd-looking shape, especially when growing upwards, don’t they? They almost look like… well, I don’t have to spell it out for you!

But funny enough, this awkward shape of a cactus gives you a good chance of naming your cactus plant with a cool nickname with a double meaning!

Hidden messages are always fun and zesty, particularly when it’s an inside joke between you and your partner or crush.

You could tell your significant other whenever she comes over, “Even my cactus couldn’t wait to see you!”.

Here are some names you might experiment with to spice up your game:

• Long Dong
• Bone
• Woody
• Top Gun
• Big Boy
• Woody Allan
• Little Prick
• Big Gun
• Dick Prick
• Chub
• Snake plant
• Eggplant
• Stryker
• Big Prick

Ironic Cactus Names

We all know the risk of growing a cactus as a houseplant: you might get stung and hurt when you touch it. Since you’re keeping such a peculiar plant in the house, how about giving it a name that devoids its nature?

You can name your cactus your cuddling buddy and tell it to friends whenever they come over – the looks on their faces will be priceless!

Ironic cactus names are an excellent way of adding a bit of fun to your naming game, and we’ve compiled some great names whose meaning is different from what they actually represent:

• Cuddles 
• Snuggles
• Fluffy
• Hug Bunny
• Huggie
• Bubbles
• Ruff

Non-Ironic Cactus Names

Now, let’s put the jokes aside for a minute and give the cactus plant a chance to express itself, a name that actually says just how painful they can be!

And it’s always an accident whenever you hurt yourself on these small pricks, but that doesn’t take away the pain that comes afterward!

Being stung by a cactus is like a hot sensation with a tickling effect; it can even leave you with a mark! Therefore, it does make sense to name your cactus with what they are known for best, especially when you touch them: pain!

Take a look at some non-ironic cactus names you can name your plant with:

• Ms. Prickly
• Painy
• ThatHurt
• Ouchie
• Stinger
• Pointy
• Sir Stabbington
• PokeBear
• Stung Bee

Cactus Names Based on Movies, Series, and TV Shows

There are no limits to what you can use to name your cactus plant; you can use anything you like!

It’s much better to have the “Prickle Monster” in your home than a nameless plant.

Naming your cactus after something you relish will reveal much about your personality.

I mean, it’s not like everyone watches Rick and Morty, right? That’s only for the cool people!

Here are some cool cactus names based on movies, TV shows, and their actors:

• Prickle Monster – Our main protagonist (Or is it the antagonist? Let’s go with the main character!)  
• Pokiemon – Pokemon needs no introduction; you must have watched it!
• Pok-Man – remember the old computer game of a giant yellow monster?
• Spike Lee – the legendary director of Marvel movies
• Prick and Morty – a reference to the animation “Rick and Morty” 
• Pokahontas – a reference to the animation “Pocahontas”
• CactSUS – you must’ve played “Among Us” during the pandemic; I mean, there was nothing else to do!
• Elsa – the snow queen in “Frozen” (the perfect name for fairy castle cactus)
• Luke Skypoker – the infamous Luke Skywalker from the Star Wars franchise
• Me Hammer – “U can’t touch this”
• Bloat – a reference to a character in the animation “Finding Nemo”
• Merida – the brave Disney Princess from Scotland
• Atticus Pinch – after a character from “How To Kill A Mockingbird”
• Fuzz Lightyear – after Buzz Lightyear; a good name for an Old man cactus
• Smelly Cact – I hope you’ve watched Friends, a reference to a song played by Phoebe, “Smelly Cat.”
• Stabley Kowalski – a reference from “A Streetcar Named Desire”
• Marty – Alex’s best friend, the zebra in “Madagascar”
• Tian-tian – the well-known panda from The National Zoo, would be a great name for your zebra cactus
• Stabley Ipkiss – referencing “The Mask”
• Pricky Bobby – referencing the sports comedy film “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby”
• Princess Peach – a fictional character in the Mario movie and games; the perfect name if you’re growing a Prickly pear cactus
• Corporal Pricks – referencing the famous movie “Aliens”
• Obi-wan – another reference to a character from the Star Wars franchise played by Ewan Mcgregor; this is an excellent name for a rat tail cactus since Obi-wan also had a rat tail!
• Pokachu – a character from Pokemon
• Angela Prickles – referencing the animated series “Rugrats”
• Whiskey – referencing Opuntia, also known as the Barrel cactus
• Doc or Bugsy – the perfect name for a bunny ear cactus
• Spongebob Sharppants – the always happy guy in Bikini Bottom, Spongebob Squarepants
• Tony Saguaro – referencing a character from the crime-drama series “The Sopranos”; a great name for a Saguaro cactus

Cactus Names Based on Pop Culture

We’ve already looked at the film and cinema domain, but now we’ll focus on pop culture; even Britney Pierce deserves her spotlight. After all, she is a star!

As mentioned earlier, giving your cactus a name derived from something you like will tell others what kind of a person you are, as well as your preferences (plus, there’s no need to let the chance of naming your plant after a famous singer go by just like that).

The list below consists of some familiar names and even made-up ones: the point here is you can be as creative as you like and name your plant after the celebrities you admire.

Here are some cactus names based on pop culture:

• Harry Spikes – referencing the English singer and actor Harry Styles
• Poker Face – a reference to a song by Lady Gaga
• Poke Smoke – referencing the rapper Pop Smoke
• Britney Pierce – a reference to Britney Spears
• Blue Ivy – referencing Beyonce’s adorable daughter; a great name for the Blue column cactus
• Old St. Nick – the perfect name for a Christmas cactus
• Cactus Everdeen
• Cactina Turner – referencing the famous Tina Turner
• PewDieSpike – you must’ve heard of Pewdiepie, right? A famous YouTuber
• Spikes McGee

Rhyming Plant Names

Rhyming may not seem as fun, but you just have to do it right for it to work!

Rhyming can be useful when you’re studying, and you want to memorize some notes, and it becomes even more fun when you relate it to someone or something.

Rhyming isn’t hard at all; everyone can do it! So, why not go ahead and have some wordplay with plant names?

Here is a list of rhyming cactus names!

• Katniss the Cactus
• Peter Prickin’
• Prickly Pete
• Peter the Prick
• Senior Saguaro (Saguaro is a cacti cultivar) 
• Serena the Succulent
• Smokey Pokey
• Atticus the Acupuncturist
• Rick the Prick
• Carl the Cactus
• Christofern
• Cedric
• Dill Prickle
• Xena the Xerophyte
• Prickle Monster
• Stabby Daddy

Cute Cactus Names

Cute plants deserve cute names, and even though the cuteness of a cactus plant will speak for itself, it’s always good to have a name accompanying its adorable look.

Cute names aren’t for cacti plants or other plants only; actually, the names we will share with you have lovely symbolic meanings, and you can use them to name pets or kids.

Take a look at some cute cactus names:

• Flora – the perfect name for a plant since it encompasses the entire plant kingdom
• Blossom – for cacti plants that produce flowers
• Minnie – a reference to Minnie Mouse, the Disney character; an excellent name for small cacti plants
• Greenie
• Love
• Babygirl
• Baby Bulbous – a great name if you’re growing a round-shape cactus
• Stabitha
• Tiny
• Gem
• Verde – meaning green
• Mr. Moon – the perfect name for a Moon Cactus
• Sprout
• Babyboy
• Sunshine
• Baby Pricky
• Cherub – a good name for a Small angel-wing cactus
• The Green One
• Hope
• Ms. Prickly
• Emerald
• Dr. Green Thumb

Girl Names for Cacti Plants

A girl’s name will be excellent if you love tiny, fragile cacti plants. 

Fortunately, there are unlimited girl names, each having its meaning, and you can use them to give your cacti plants some beautiful nicknames.

We’ve gathered some girl names for your cacti plants; take a look:

• Layla – Egyptian for Born at night (or Dark beauty)
• Samantha – Hebrew for the listener; a cool name for your therapeutic friend
• Diana – means Moon goddess in Latin; the perfect name for a Moon Cactus
• Vivian – Latin for full of life
• Sylvia – Latin for forest
• Reveka – Hebrew for captivating
• Stella – means star in Greek
• Chloe – means green shoots in Greek mythology
• Farrah – means happy in Arabic
• Zahra – Arabic for flower
• Arabella – means elegant and lovely in Latin
• Callie – stands for most beautiful in Greek

Boy Names for Cacti Plants

Girl names are suitable for your delicate and gentle plants, but some plants will be thick and sturdy as they grow – these types of cacti plants could benefit a lot from boy names!

Similar to girl names, boy names also have symbolic meanings, and there’s an endless list to choose from. 

The good thing about names is that you can use them on many things. Therefore, these names can work for your plants, pets, and even kids!

Here are some boy names for cacti plants:

• Jesse – Hebrew for gift
• Henry – German for ruler of a household
• David – Hebrew for beloved
• Magnus – stands for greatest in Latin
• Austin – Latin for majestic dignity
• Phoenix – Greek for blood-red
• Zane – means God’s gracious gift in Hebrew
• Aiden – stands for sun god in Celtic
• Sebastian – stands for venerable in Greek
• Ethan – Hebrew for firm, safe, and strong
• Noah – Hebrew for rest and peace
• Chance – means good fortune in English
• Oswald – means divine power in English

Cactus Names for a Business

There are so many ways you can incorporate your plants into your business. 

Plants make your space more lively with their beautiful color and bundle of life, just what you need for your business premises.

If you plan on opening a garden shop to sell your favorite cacti plants, or maybe you want your business to have a theme that resonates with your love for plants, a creative name could change a lot in your selling game!

But don’t worry! We’ve already gathered some great names that you can use to gather more interest and traffic for your business; all you need to do is focus on your hard work, and your business will be alright!

Please don’t go for complex scientific names for plants; no one wants to go to a cafe whose name they have difficulty pronouncing or remembering! Instead, choose lovely names that will describe your cute plant perfectly.

Here are some cactus names you can use for your business:

• The Cactus Crew – no need to explain this one. You can use it for any type of business; it doesn’t necessarily have to be about cacti plants only.
• Cacti Care – anyone who hears a business named “Cacti Care” would be interested to know all about it, so if you’re a botanist, go ahead and try your luck with a business with a similar name!
• Fuzzy Cacti
• Thorny Roses – your garden shop doesn’t have to sell one type of plant; why don’t you try selling roses and cacti plants with this catchy name?
• Believe in cactUS – this is the perfect name for generating confidence in your business, a cool slogan for your cacti business. 
• Point Cacti
• The Cactus Shoppe
• Supreme Succulents – perfect for a garden shop with succulents like cacti and aloe.
• Cacti Landscaping Service – if your business deals with landscaping services, particularly cacti, this is an excellent name.

In Conclusion

Naming plants is a fun thing to do!

You’ll always have those special moments when you tell your friends about your favorite cactus called “Ms. Prickly” or “Hug Bunny” and have a laugh together to lighten the mood.

There are numerous names to choose from: some have beautiful meanings, such as Ethan, Farrah, Stella, or Chance, while others even have double meanings like “Snake Plant” – you can never go wrong!

I hope the names we’ve shared in this article will assist you when naming your plants and take your connection to them to the next level!

See you next time, bye!

The Araceae family has one of the most interesting indoor plants. Some of these plants are more common than others, but they all make a great addition to any indoor space. 

Philodendrons and Monsteras are some of the most common plants in this genera, but the Raphidophora follows close behind them.

The good thing about plants from this genus is that they are low-maintenance and amazing to look at.

This article will examine one of the most unique Rhaphidophora species, the mesmerizing Rhaphidophora korthalsii.

While this plant isn’t overly unique, many people may not have heard of it due to its complicated name. But there are several nicknames that it goes by, so it shouldn’t be too elusive. 

Before we get into the details about its care requirements, appearance, propagation, and common issues that affect it, let’s cover some basic info about R. korthalsii.

Understanding the Rhaphidophora Korthalsii

The Rhaphidophora genus is one of the most common groups of houseplants. Plants from this genus are quite similar, but what’s even more confusing is their close resemblance with the Monstera genus.

Even experienced gardeners can sometimes mix up the two plants. To understand the differences, we’ll cover the main features of the R.korthalsii plant.

How Does the Rhaphidophora Celatocaulis Look Like?

One of the most special things about the R.korthalsii is the different shapes of the leaves in the juvenile and mature growth stages.

Young korthalsii plants have narrow, elongated leaves; upon maturing, the leaves become massive, split, and will often become perforated. 

Let’s explore more!

Leaves

When it’s at the young stage, the leaves of the shingle plants resemble hearts. Be careful when referring to R. korthalsii as the “shingle plant” since many other plants go by the same name, which may be confusing. 

Another unique feature of the leaves at a young age is short petioles. At this stage, the leaves grow about 2.5 inches wide and 4 inches long. 

Once it has matured, the leaves grow about 17 inches wide and 35 inches long (pretty massive!)

Stem

Like the leaves, the stem also changes as the plant ages. The young, glossy light green stems age to a woody color. At the early stages of development, the plants have small internodes, but as the plant grows, the internodes expand to about 6 inches. 

Flowers

Flowering in this plant is quite fascinating. The plant may either develop a single or numerous flowers, and said flower or flowers may produce a single inflorescence or several. The first flower on the plant is subtended by a prophyll that resembles a membrane. 

A mature korthalsii plant produces grayish-white flowers on an elongated symmetrical spathe. After a short while, the spathe falls off, leaving a broad scar at the bottom of the spadix. 

Growth Rate and Habit 

In its natural habitat, the Rhaphidophora celatocaulis can grow up to a massive 65 feet.

Even though it has a fast growth rate, the plant will only grow up to 8 feet when cultivated as a houseplant. As it grows taller, the plant may need a support structure such as a pole or a totem in an indoor environment. 

Rhaphidophora Korthalsii vs Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma

Due to their striking similarities, sometimes it may be difficult to differentiate plants from the Rhaphidophora genus. For example, many gardeners have a challenge differentiating between Monstera minima and Rhaphidophora tetrasperma.

Other sets of species that are often mixed up, especially due to their massive split leaves, are R.korthalsii and Rhaphidophora tetrasperma (mini monstera). Only by closely examining the shape of the leaves can you tell the difference. 

The shingle plant has larger albeit less wide leaves compared to the Rhaphidophora tetrasperma. Another key difference is that the mini monstera leaves don’t contain perforations around the midrib that give the leaves a stilted appearance, unlike the R. korthalsii.

Rhaphidophora Korthalsii vs Rhaphidophora Hayi

It’s not surprising that these two plants are strikingly similar, given that they belong to the same genus.

The main differentiator between the two is leaf color. While the R.hayi has dark green foliage, the R.korthalsii has blue-green foliage. 

Additionally, the R.hayi leaves don’t change shape through the different growth stages of the plant, i.e., the leaves will look the same in mature and juvenile stages.

The distinct morphology of Korthalsii’s mature leaves can also be used to differentiate the two since the R.hayi leaves don’t form perforations. Moreover, the leaves of the hayi don’t overlap, which is the case with korthalsii leaves. 

Rhaphidophora Korthalsii Schott: Care Guide

Now, you can differentiate the korthalsii from other plant species, and you know exactly what this plant looks like. It’s time we examined how you should take care of this plant to ensure that it’s healthy and thrives.

Luckily, this Rhaphidophora is easy to maintain, and you can easily meet its demands. In fact, if you mimic its natural habitat, your plant will be thriving in no time. 

Here is a summary of its main care requirements.

Let’s examine this care guide in detail!

Light Requirements 

Light is one of the most important parts of the R.korthalsii care guide. When exposed to the wrong light conditions, your plant will be significantly impacted in a negative way, and it may even die. This Rhaphidophora thrives in bright indirect light, so ensure you place it in an area where it can receive plenty of it.

Too much direct light will wreak havoc on your plant, especially the leaves, which will curl, scorch, and wilt or droop. Continuous exposure to these conditions will cause your plant to dry up and eventually die.

Low light conditions are just as detrimental. To grow healthy and robust, the plant needs the leaves to absorb enough light for the photosynthesis process. Keeping the plant in low light conditions will cause the leaves to start yellowing, which in turn stunts the growth of the plant. 

The ideal place for your plant would be in either a west or east-facing window, where it can receive low-intensity direct light in the early morning or late evening. For the rest of the day, the plant will receive indirect light, which is perfect for its growth.

Avoid placing this tropical plant near a south-facing window due to the intensity of the sun’s rays. If finding another ideal location is difficult, then consider placing something to filter the direct sun rays, such as sheer curtains. 

On the other hand, if your plant is in a location where it’s mostly dark, such as a north-facing window, then you should invest in grow lights to provide the plant with sufficient light.

Humidity Requirements

Due to the climates in the tropics, plants with tropical origins naturally require high humidity levels. 

As such, the average household humidity levels won’t be ideal for your shingle plant. You’ll need to adjust it accordingly.

Keeping the humidity levels above 60% will ensure your plant is in an optimal environment. 

Adjusting the humidity may seem like a challenging task for beginner growers, but if you are seasoned in this trade, then you know what to do.

Here are five great methods to adjust humidity levels around your Rhaphidophora to help it thrive.

Mist Your Rhaphidophora

A classic method of increasing the humidity levels around your plant. This method is simple and effective, but it takes a lot of time. 

Since the plant may need misting several times a day, it may not be the best method to use if you don’t have a lot of free time. This frequency of misting is required since the moisture that you have misted on the plants will quickly evaporate, decreasing the humidity.

If you don’t have the time to mist the plant several times a day, then combine this method with any of the following DIY methods.

Place a Pebble Tray Below The Pot

A pebble or humidity tray is a cheap way to increase the humidity in your plants without going for complex and costly methods. 

All you need to do is fill a shallow dish or tray with some pebbles, then pour some water on the tray and place your plant on the pebbles. As the water evaporates from the tray, it’ll increase the humidity around your plant. 

Pebbles are beautiful, so this will add to the beauty of your shingle plant, making it even more breathtaking.

This method is effective for tropical plants, but to increase the chances of success, you should combine it with another method.

Grouping Your Plants Together

It may sound a little bit fishy, but grouping your plants together will do wonders when looking to increase the humidity levels. Placing plants close to each other creates a perfect microclimate for your greed buddies.

This simplistic idea doesn’t require any special chemical or biological process, and it’s the easiest of the five methods.  

If you are growing more than one houseplant or other species of the Rhaphidophora genus, such as the Rhaphidophora decursiva or Rhaphidophora cryptantha, then placing them next to each other will help these aroids maintain high moisture levels through the transpiration process.

You can also place other plants that benefit from high moisture levels, such as Hoya, the Scindapsus, or Epipremnum genus, near your korthalsii.

Use a Terrarium

You can either use a terrarium or a vivarium to grow your korthalsii under the right humidity levels.

Generally, terrariums are preferred for smaller plants, but larger plants such as Monsteras or, in this case, Rhaphidophora also do well in larger containers.

As previously mentioned, these plants grow to massive heights, but you can trim them to maintain the desired size when growing them indoors.

You can purchase terrariums for your aroids online.

Purchase a Humidifier

DIY may seem like too far of a stretch for some growers, but the convenience comes at a cost. 

A humidifier isn’t generally cheap, but it’s efficient, and if you can afford one, it’s the best choice to increase humidity levels for your korthalsii. 

If you have a lot of tropical houseplants, then a humidifier is even economical, considering the benefits that your plants will reap.

Temperature Requirements 

Even though these plants are native to tropical regions, the temperatures don’t need to be sky-high for this plant to thrive.

Maintain temperatures of at least 65℉ indoors. It’s also important to note that your plant may be adversely affected if the temperatures are above 80℉.

To be safe, you should maintain a median temperature of about 75℉.

While the R. korthalsii can also do well in slightly higher or slightly lower temperatures, it can’t withstand temperature fluctuations or drafts.

As such, you should keep your plants away from air vents, radiators, air conditioners, furnaces, and fireplaces.

Soil

A key feature of plants from tropical regions is that they thrive in porous or well-draining soils. This prevents waterlogging and ensures the plant can absorb enough oxygen from the roots.

To create the best potting soil for your R.korthalsii, use the following materials:

• Coco coir

• Perlite or pumice

• Sphagnum moss

• Orchid bark

Materials such as perlite are important in the soil since they enhance drainage, which in turn reduces the risk of overwatering.

Adding drainage holes to your pot or container is also another effective way of improving drainage. These holes drain off the extra moisture that would otherwise attract fungi, bacteria, and insects.

As for the soil pH, the Rhaphidophora thrives in soils of pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. To confirm the pH of your soil, you can perform a soil test.

Watering 

Probably the most challenging part about the R. Korthalsii care guide is the watering part. Since it’s a tropical plant, you’ll generally expect that it needs a lot of watering. However, it actually prefers less watering.

As with other plant care needs, watering will also vary based on whether the plant is growing outdoors or indoors.

It’s important to note that the watering frequency will vary depending on many factors, such as humidity, temperature, and light levels. Varying these factors will cause the watering needs to change. 

Your Rhaphidophora will need more watering during the growing season in the summer. As fall approaches, the watering needs will decrease as the growing season comes to an end. During the dormant winter period, the plant will need even less watering.

The secret to a well-watered R,korthalsii, is creating and maintaining a good watering schedule. This should be your main concern when watering the plant.

Watering should be done once the top two inches of the soil are dry. To confirm if the soil is dry, insert a finger in the soil and observe. Alternatively, you can use a moisture meter to detect the moisture levels in your plants. 

It’s best to avoid underwatering or overwatering your plant. Either of these occurrences could significantly impact your plant and even lead to its death. This is why it’s critical to figure out the best watering schedule for your plant.

Fertilizing

Giving your plants a boost is crucial for them to be healthy and robust throughout the season. As such, you should feed your R.korthalsii at least once a month during the growing season. 

Here is what you should consider when choosing a fertilizer for your plant:

• All-purpose

• Balanced

• Liquid 

No matter the fertilizer or NPK ratio you choose, ensure you dilute it to half-strength to avoid burning the plant’s roots.

Staking 

The shingle plant is a vining or climbing plant, so it’ll need some support in the course of its growth.

The best way to do this is to use a moss pole or totems, trellises, coco coir poles, climbing walls, and other support structures so that the plant attaches to them.

Repotting 

The R.korthalsii is one of the fastest-growing Aracea plants. This means that it’ll need more frequent repotting than other houseplants.

Once the roots of the plant have started protruding through the drainage holes, then it’s time to repot your plant.

The best time to repot your plant is at the beginning of the growing season. This way, your plant will have enough time to adjust to its new pot or container before the dormant season begins.

Your plant should be repotted in a larger container whose diameter is about two inches larger than the previous one. Avoid using an extremely large pot, as this could encourage the development of fungal diseases and fungal infections. 

The next part is to remove the plant from the pot. Avoid pulling the plant when doing this, as you will likely damage or break the roots. 

To remove the plant from the pot, lean it to one side and slowly slide it out.

Fill the new container with fresh potting soil to about one-third and place your plant in the middle of it. Next, add the rest of the potting soil and pat it slowly to make it firm, then lightly water the plant.

Voilà! Your plant is ready to experience new growth. 

How To Propagate The R.korthalsii

via wholesomehouseplants

Propagating the shingle plant is a fairly simple task. All you need to do is prepare the right equipment and closely follow the steps below, and you’ll have new Rhaphidophora in no time.

The best way to propagate this plant is using stem cuttings; you can either propagate the cuttings in water or in soil. 

This section will examine how to propagate cuttings, root them, and how to successfully transplant them. 

How to Make Stem Cuttings

Before you begin making cuttings, you should prepare the right tools. This may include gardening shears or a sharp knife. Sterilize the tools before using them on the plant. This way, the stem you cut will be healthy, and you’ll reduce the risk of bacterial infection.

Once you have determined that your plant is healthy, use the sanitized shears or gardening scissors to cut some healthy stems from the plant.

You’ll need a clear vase or container if you are using the water propagation method. You’ll also need some rooting hormone and a plastic bag. 

Making cutting is easy. Just follow the following steps:

1. First, select a robust and healthy stem from your plant. Select a stem that has at least two nodes (the more nodes, the better).

2. Using the shears or scissors, make a cutting on the stem just below the lower node.

3.If your cutting has any lower leaves, remove them. This reduces the risk of infection or the cuttings rotting. 

4. Next, dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone. Apply the hormone to any nodes that will be below the water or soil level.

Once done, your cuttings are ready to root!

How to Root the Cuttings in Water

Rooting in water is one of the most effective ways of propagating Rhaphidophora. You don’t need to grow the plant in water just until they root. If you don’t have a lot of experience gardening, this is a simple and effective way to root your shingle plants.

Here are the steps you should follow to root the korthalsii in water:

1. Fill a clear vase or container with some lukewarm water.

2. Insert the cut side into the water. The nodes should be below water, and the leaves should be above the water line.

3. Place the vase with the cutting in an area with sufficient bright indirect light.

4. Change the water after every two days.

5. Once the cuttings have developed roots and the roots get to about 2-3 inches, they are ready to be transplanted into the soil.

Rooting Cuttings in Soil

Propagation in soil is an efficient way to generate new plants since you don’t need to change from one medium to the other once the cuttings root. If you decide to propagate the cutting in soil, you should follow the following steps:

1. Get a nursery pot or container and fill it with fresh potting mix.

2. Make a hole in the soil that’s wide and deep enough to fit the cuttings you made.

3. Place the cutting in the soil, taking care to ensure the nodes are below the soil line.

4. Gently press the soil around the cutting to make it hold firm.

5. Cover the nursery pot or container with a plastic bag and make some holes in it to allow air circulation. The leaves of the cuttings should remain intact, so support the bag with some sticks or other support structures such that it doesn’t interfere with the cuttings.

6. Place the nursery pot or container in a warm area with sufficient bright indirect light.

7. After every four days, remove the plastic bag to allow the cuttings to breathe. You should also mist your plants to maintain the right humidity levels,

8. After the cuttings have rooted and the roots develop to about 3 inches, you should transplant the R.korthalsii to a new pot.

How to Transplant Your Cuttings 

You need to be extremely careful when handling the cuttings so that you can successfully transplant them. Cuttings can easily be damaged, especially if they are propagated in water. 

Fill a new growing pot or container with fresh potting mix. Then, make a hole in the container that is deep and wide enough for the cutting to fit in. 

Once you have planted the cutting, cover it with more potting mix and continue caring for the plant with the recommended plant care guide.

Common Issues with Shingle Plants and How to Fix Them

You are in luck because Rhaphidophora plants aren’t prone to many pests and diseases. The only issues you are likely to encounter are common houseplant issues.

Most of the issues that we’ll outline are a result of improper plant care, so let’s examine these issues in detail and learn how to fix them.

Pests and Diseases

As a gardener, you probably understand how pests and diseases can impact the growth and development of your plant in various ways; although it only occurs rarely, this plant can be attacked by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and scales.

There are different ways to deal with pest attacks or infestations, such as using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or applying rubbing alcohol to the plant.

Diseases are also rare in R.korthalsii; the most common disease that your plant is likely to suffer from is root rot. You can avoid this disease by giving your plant the best growing condition and following the right watering schedule.

Root rot can deal great damage to your plant, so it’s important to spot it early and use the right treatment to avoid excessive damage.

Leaf Deformation and Discoloration

The leaves of your plant turning yellow can be caused by several factors, so you need to examine several factors to determine what the problem is.

First, check the moisture levels. Excessive moisture or overwatering can cause leaf deformation and discoloration due to root rot.

Another form of leaf discoloration is when the leaves of your plant develop brown tips and edges. You also need to check that your plant has the right moisture levels. Only this time, you will be checking for underwatering.

Browning may also be a result of excessive temperatures or heat. 

Another type of leaf disorder is when your leaves develop spots. This is mainly caused by excess water or attack by pests.

Leaf Curl, Drooping, and Wilting

One of the most common causes of the foliage drooping and wilting is underwatering. When the plant roots don’t receive enough water, they stop carrying water to other parts of the plant. 

Leaves that receive insufficient water curl and droop.

Stunted growth is also another sign that your plant lacks enough. 

Other key causes of your plant wilting, drooping, and curling are low temperatures, low humidity, and poor light conditions.

Commonly Asked Questions 

via sansanee_sangbundit

Is the shingle plant toxic?

Yes, the Rhaphidophora korthalsii is toxic to both humans and animals. If your pet or child accidentally ingests any part of this plant, they may experience mouth swelling, oral irritation, and a loss of appetite. 

To prevent this from happening, keep your plant out of reach of children and pets.

Is the R.korthalsii a rare plant? 

It’s as rare as they come. The chances of finding this plant in your local gardening or plant store are extremely low. If you are lucky enough to find one, make sure you take good care of it and propagate it; maybe you can gift this rare aroid to a friend. 

What is the life expectancy of the Rhaphidophora korthalsii?

Like all other plants from this genus, the Rhaphidophora korthalsii is a perennial. If provided with the right growing conditions, this plant may live for up to three years. 

The plants will live longer if you replicate the tropical natural environment, which is the natural environment of this plant.

Wrapping Up 

If you’re looking to expand your indoor houseplant collection, then the R.korthalsiis should be one of the plants on your list.

Since it’s one of the rarest houseplants with amazing leaves, this plant will not only make a one-of-a-kind decor but it can also add a lot of style to your space.

When combined with the right indoor plants, the plant looks breathtaking! Since it’s low maintenance, you won’t have to worry much when growing this perennial.

As the plant matures, support it with the right structures, such as trellises, or grow it in hanging baskets. Either way, you are assured of alluring, breathtaking beauty in your space. Just don’t forget about the toxicity if you have pets or children.

Until next time!

Plants add beauty to any space or landscape, and growing and taking care of them can be therapeutic, even fulfilling.

But with so many plants available, it’s difficult to choose which plant to grow. It gets even harder if you are new to the gardening and plants scene.

Luckily, we advise which plants you can add to your landscape or space next. If you want to start with or spruce up your garden with flowering plants, then we have just the plant for you.

The Hoya gracilis from the Hoya genus is one of the most captivating and easy-to-care-for flowering plants. The beauty of these plants will leave you astounded and have guests marveling at your garden.

In this article, we’ll examine this plant in detail, look at its care requirements and propagation methods, as well as some common issues you may encounter while taking care of this plant and how to handle them.

But first, here is some basic information about Hoya gracilis:

What Is A Hoya Gracilis

via plantdaddy.ry

Before we get into the details, it’s important to note that Hoya gracilis is sometimes referred to as Hoya memoria, so don’t consider the two as different plants. They are actually one and the same. 

Some common plants from the Hoya genus include Hoya polyneura, Hoya carnosa Krimson Queen, Hoya linearis, Hoya macrophylla, Hoya curtisii, variegated Hoya australis, and Hoya fungii.

So, how do you differentiate between the memoria and gracilis species?

Hoya plants are epiphytic and, as such, grow on other plants when in their natural habitat. However, this relationship isn’t parasitic; the plants absorb water and nutrients from the air and only use the plants they grow on for structural support. 

The gracilis is green with silverish speckles, but the stand-out feature of the plant is its unique flowers. 

The raspberry-like flowers are unique, and even more remarkable is their sweet caramel scent that’ll fill your room once the flowers bloom.

If you grow this plant, then the blooming period will be the most enjoyable time since the fragrance from the flowers will even eliminate the need for an air freshener. Here is a detailed care guide for your Hoya plant.

Plant Care Requirement For The Hoya Gracilis

via rheingauerbluetenfee

The Hoya gracilis is one of my favorite plants to grow, and for good reason. This plant has minimal care requirements, and as such, it’s easy to keep it healthy. It’ll still survive even if you forget about the plant for a while.

For your Hoya plant to thrive, it‘ll need moderate temperatures, bright indirect light, well-draining soil, moderate to high humidity, monthly fertilization, and regular repotting. 

Let’s examine these care requirements in detail.

Light Requirements 

Hoya thrives in a place where they can receive plenty of bright indirect light.

Place your plant next to the window where it’ll receive the bright, low-intensity morning light. The ideal place for your plant will be in a south-facing window. Just make sure that the plant isn’t exposed to the high-intensity afternoon sunlight.

If you can’t find a place with plenty of indirect light, then you can cover your window with sheers to create some partial shade. By doing this, you mimic the tropical setting, which is the natural habitat of these plants.

However, Hoyas can still survive in low light conditions but are less likely to bloom if they receive insufficient light. 

Temperature Requirements

Gracilis plants thrive in temperatures between 50 and 90℉.

Temperature is one of the factors you should be really watchful of as the hoya plant isn’t frost-tolerant. In fact, temperatures below 50℉ could kill your plant.

Extremely high temperatures will also adversely affect the plant. Ensure that temperatures around your plant don’t exceed 90℉.

You should also keep the plant away from areas with drafts or frequent temperature changes. For example, keep it away from your air conditioner.

Watering Requirements

via that_urban_jungle

One thing about the Hoya plant is that it doesn’t need frequent watering. The leaves of the plant are succulent, hence can store water. This results in a low watering need for the plant but also increases the risk of overwatering.

You should water the plant only when the top two inches of the soil dry out, or wait until the soil is completely dry. 

The idea here is to ensure the roots don’t sit in water for too long, as it could cause root rot, which will kill your plants.

For Hoya plants, it’s better if they are underwatered than overwatered.

Humidity Requirements 

Tropical regions usually have high humidity levels. As such, when growing plants from this region, you should provide them with similar conditions. 

Humidity levels around your hoya plant should be at least 50%. Hoya plants can thrive and bloom when the humidity levels are between 40% and 60%. When growing these plants, it’s important to adjust the humidity around them since houses generally don’t have such levels of humidity. If these levels fall below 40%, your plant may fail to bloom.

Luckily, there are several methods you can use to adjust the humidity around your plants.

First, you can use a humidifier. While such a device can be pricey, it’s the most effective method of adjusting humidity.

The second method is using a pebble tray filled with water. Fill a tray with some pebbles and add some water. Then, place your plant on the pebble tray. As the water from the tray evaporates, it’ll increase the humidity around the plants.

Alternatively, you can place your plants in areas with natural high humidity, such as the bathroom or the kitchen. 

Soil

Most people tend to ignore soil or the growing medium when it comes to gardening, but it’s just as crucial as other factors.

While it may not draw all nutrients from soil, if the growing medium isn’t right, then your plant won’t survive. 

Hoya gracilis should be grown in well-draining soil. If your soil has poor drainage, then you should amend it with materials such as pebbles, sand, perlite, and peat moss to improve drainage and water retention. 

Since the plant doesn’t grow on soil in its natural environment, it could quickly die if the soil isn’t well-drained. 

This is mainly caused by waterlogging, which leads to root rot. Mix some perlite, orchid bark, and succulent mix to create the perfect blend for growing your Hoya plant.

Fertilizing Schedule

via san.hoya

Monthly fertilizing is recommended for this plant, but only during the growing season (spring and summer) when the plant will take most of the nutrients.

Hoyas enter dormancy during winter, and new growth rarely occurs, so feeding the plant during this time will have minimal to no impact and could lead to burns on the plant’s roots.

Use fertilizers rich in Nitrogen when fertilizing the plant to promote faster and more blooming when the flowering season comes.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions as displayed on the fertilizer packaging; veering from these instructions will harm your plant.

Pruning

Since they’re vining plants, Hoyas are mostly grown in hanging baskets as houseplants.

As the vines grow and elongate, you’ll need to prune the plant unless you are looking to fill the entire space with hoya vines.

When pruning, first cut down the diseased, discolored, and damaged leaves. You can then prune the plant to your desired shape. Use sterilized tools during this process to minimize the plant’s infection risk.

You can also grow your Hoya plants in a pot or container, but you’ll need to provide them with structural support, such as trellises, once the vining starts.

Repotting

Annual repotting isn’t necessary for this plant, but you need to repot the plant immediately if you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes or if the plant has overgrown its original pot or basket.

When repotting, use fresh potting soil as the old one may contain pests or fungus. Also, ensure you repot the plant to a larger pot, container, or basket (about two times bigger)

Propagating The Hoya Memoria 

Propagating the Hoya memoria is easy, and you’ll be done before you even know it. 

First, you need to find a healthy stem with some nodes attached and carefully chop it off.

Next, fill a nursery with fresh, well-drained potting soil and make a hole in the center. Now, place the stem cutting in the hole approximately two inches deep.

Ensure the leaves of the cutting aren’t below the soil line, as they could quickly rot and lead to the death of the entire cutting. Place a plastic bag over the cutting to maintain high humidity levels, or mist the cutting regularly. 

Place the nursery in a place with sufficient bright indirect light so your plant can root easily. 

Once you notice new growth on the stem cuttings, you can repot the plant to a new pot, and voilà, you have successfully propagated a new Hoya plant!

Common Issues 

via krystynakaziow

You won’t experience many issues when growing this Hoya plant as it isn’t prone to most pests and diseases. However, if you are growing other plants in the vicinity prone to pests and diseases, your gracilis may also be impacted. Inspect your plant regularly to ensure it isn’t under attack. 

Common pests that may attack Hoyas include thrips, scales, and spider mites.

The good news is you can easily handle such pests by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap to the leaves of your gracilis. 

The biggest risk to Hoya memoria is root rot. The best way to prevent this issue is by growing the plant in well-draining soil and sticking to the right watering schedule.

If, unfortunately, root rot occurs in your plant. First, you need to remove any affected roots from the pot, then transplant it to a new pot with a fresh potting mix. 

Most of the time, root rot will be exhibited by yellowing of the leaves and mushy soil, which sometimes may have a bad odor.

Frequently Asked Questions

via my_green_mess

Is the Hoya gracilis a rare plant?

Yes, the hoya gracilis is one of the rarest plants. It’s unlikely to find this plant in plant stores, but there are reputable stores online that sell it. If you are lucky enough to find one, take care of it and propagate it, and maybe you can gift your friends this uncommon plant. 

Is the Hoya gracilis toxic?

Fortunately, this Hoya plant isn’t toxic. Like many plants from the Hoya genus, this plant isn’t toxic to either humans or pets. You can grow the plant in hanging baskets indoors without having to worry about your children or pets accidentally ingesting them. 

Summing Up 

The Hoya gracilis is one of the best houseplants you can grow. Its colorful flowers will add beauty to your space and leave it with an amazing caramel scent. There are so many Hoya plants you can choose from based on your taste or preference.

Since it’s low maintenance, nontoxic, and doesn’t need much catering, this flowering plant is a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. 

Just follow the care guide for this plant, and it’ll adorn and provide your space with a unique fragrance for days. 

The Calathea Roseopicta is one of the prettiest houseplants that you can get. This plant, whose native habitat is the rainforests of South America, has unique and interesting color combinations. 

It has been nicknamed the rose-painted Calathea, a name that truly reflects its uniqueness. If you want to veer away from the normal and try a rose-painted plant, then this Calathea is the plant for you.

The uniqueness of the plant is compounded by the fact that it belongs to the prayer plant family. Plants in this family fold up at night, making them look like they are praying, hence the name.

While the care requirements of the Roseopicta may be considerably fussy as compared to other plants, the beauty and interest that these plants attract make them worthy of going the extra mile. In this article, we discuss all you need to know about Calathea Roseopicta and how to take care of it.

Before we get into the details, here is some basic information about this plant:

What is the Calathea Roseopicta

Before we get into the details about this plant’s appearance, we need to clarify one thing.

The Calathea Roseopicta was reclassified to the Goeppertia roseopicta. While Calathea is still an accepted synonym of the plant, the real scientific name has changed.

Now, to the interesting part. What makes this plant so unique is its uniquely colored, broad, dark leaves. The leaves seem to have been painted with vivid pink and white patterns. 

The pink color is usually present when the plant is young, and as it matures, the color fades away to the whitish pattern. 

And that’s only half of it! The undersides of roseopicta leaves are reddish purple, and since it’s a prayer plant, as nightfall approaches, the leaves will fold, bringing a combination of dark green and reddish purple to your space that blends seamlessly. This is one of the plants that proves that Mother Nature is the greatest architect. 

The leaf movement of prayer-plants at night is known as nyctinasty.

Rose Painted Calathea Varieties

Calatheas were first discovered in the 19th century, and over time, many hybrids of the plant have been created. 

The common varieties of Calathea include the Calathea Ornata, Calathea white fusion, Calathea faciata, and Calathea Maui queen.

From these varieties, several hybrids have been created.

Here is a list of some of the common Roseopicta hybrids:

1. Calathea roseopicta Medallion: Medallion has large green leaves with silverish and emerald green tones covering the midrib. The undersides of the leaves are reddish purple.
2. Calathea roseopicta Rosy: The doty variety has oval-shaped leaves with edges that are dark green. The center of the leaves is adorned by a pink hue, while the undersides are magenta. 
3. Calathea Roseopicta Eclipse: A striking variety that has dark green leaves with white edges and a fading pink hue. 
4. Calathea roseopicta Dottie: This hybrid is differentiated by deep dark green leaves that are almost black. The leaves have pink edges and centers.

How to Take Care of the Calathea Roseopicta

The Calathea roseopicta has stunning features, almost bewitching in its beauty.

However, with great beauty comes high maintenance! This plant isn’t low maintenance, and caring for it may prove to be difficult, especially for beginner gardeners. 

The Calathea requires well-draining soils that are watered just after the two top inches become dry, bright indirect light, high humidity levels, moderate temperatures, and monthly fertilization. 

Generally, Calathea plants will do well in similar requirements, but some species may tolerate a slight deviation. Unfortunately, Calathea roseopicta doesn’t fall into this category and will require close attention if you want it to thrive. It really is hard to impress.

Light Requirements of the Rose-Painted Calathea?

With the native habitat of the plant being in rainforest and in partially shaded areas, this plant thrives in indirect sunlight even though it may tolerate low light levels (you better stick to the requirements with this one).

When growing it indoors, the ideal place to position your plant will be close to the windows that receive indirect sunlight throughout the day. Exposing it to direct sunlight will cause the leaves to droop or color, and they may even fry up with intense sunlight.

Placing it in a dark room is just as deteriorating since the plant will become leggy and lose its beauty. 

Place the plant in the North or east-facing windows at the windowsills. This way, the plant can receive enough direct sunlight without being exposed to intense sun rays. 

It’s important to note that light levels may change the watering needs of the plant. So, if the light is too intense or too low, the watering requirements may significantly change.

Temperature Requirements 

While some Calathea may tolerate slightly lower room temperatures, it’s important to remember that they’re used to warmer temperatures in their natural habitat in the tropics. When grown as indoor plants, you’ll need to maintain a temperature of between 65 and 85℉. 

Luckily, the roseopicta can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, but temperature fluctuations will harm the plant. 

The temperatures required by this plant make it challenging to maintain them during winter. This is because the heat generated by heaters can lead to significant damage to the plant. Air conditioners will also have a similar effect, so it’s best to keep the plant away from such equipment. 

Roseopicta can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11, where the plant can even survive outdoors. If temperatures drop below 60℉, shelter your plants indoors in areas where temperatures are suitable. 

Don’t grow the plant outdoors if you live outside these hardiness zones, as it’ll likely not survive.

Humidity Requirements 

Tropical areas often have high humidity levels, and as such, Calathea will thrive if the humidity conditions are similar to these regions.

Calatheas do well in humidity levels of 75%, even though they can survive in humidity levels as low as 50%. If the humidity levels get lower than this, the leaves will curl and become crispy. 

There are several measures you can take to increase the humidity levels, such as misting the plant using a spray bottle every two to three days.

An alternative method is using a humidifier. While it may be costly, it’s also highly effective.

Another method that you can try is the pebble tray method, where you place the plant on top of pebbles in a tray filled with water.

An even easier way to increase humidity levels in your plants is placing them in rooms with naturally high humidity levels, like the kitchen and the bathroom, or grouping the plants close together.

Watering Requirements 

Watering is the most challenging part of the Calathea roseopicta plant care guide.

This Calathea variety thrives in moist soils, so it’ll need regular watering. The challenging part is that if you water the plant too often and water accumulates in the soil, the roots will suffocate, and the plant may even develop fungal infections.

On the other hand, if you fail to water the plant for extended periods, it becomes too weak and frail, and it may even die. 

Talk of being trapped between a rock and a hard place! But the solution to this dilemma is simple. Before watering the plants, check for the moisture levels in the soil. Low moisture levels indicate that it’s time to water the plant. Generally, if the top two inches of the soil are dry, then you should water it. 

There is no specific watering schedule for the roseopicta simply because many factors will impact the watering needs. Temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight will all impact how you should water this Calathea. 

During the hot summer seasons, the plant will need more water and less watering during the dormancy period, usually winter. Also, if the plant is low in humidity, you should increase the watering amount.

Watering Technique and Water Type

Watering is a really tricky business for Calathea Roseopicta because even the type of water you use should be taken into account. Tap water contains many minerals and compounds, some of which may impact the plant since it’s very delicate. 

For example, fluoride and chlorine, which are common minerals found in tap water, can cause the Calathea leaves to turn brown. 

Opt for distilled or filtered water for your plants. This type of water has minimal chemical content, so it won’t harm your plants.

Rainwater is, of course, the best water to use for the plant, but since it isn’t always possible to get rainwater filtered or distilled, it’ll suffice. If the only water you have is tap water, then let it sit overnight so that the concentration of harmful compounds such as chlorine decreases.

When watering, be careful not to wet the foliage as this could attract insects and pests that could kill the entire plant or cause fungal infections.

Ideal Soil for the Calathea Roseopicta

As mentioned earlier, the soil you choose for this plant has to be well-draining. Since rose-painted Calatheas need moist soils, they also need good water retention capabilities.

You’ll need to create the right soil blends to facilitate this. First, you need to choose the right base; regular potting soil will suffice.

Next, you have to amend the base with the right ingredients. This can include peat moss or charcoal, which help the soil retain moisture.

You can also add materials such as pumice, perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir to enhance the drainage ability of the soil. 

An optimal soil blend will be something like 50% soil, 20% charcoal, 20% orchid bark, and pumice or perlite at 10%. This mix has a perfect combination of water retention and proper drainage. 

Fertilizing Schedule

Now, here, you can take a breather! The roseopicta is fussy and needy over many things, but you won’t have to worry about fertilizing. 

You can feed this plant with high-quality all-purpose fertilizer, and you are good to go. 

Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season as it’ll promote new and faster growth. 

Since this fertilizer is grown for its beautiful leaves, you can use fertilizers that have rich nitrogen content that encourages lush foliage.

Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormancy period, as it won’t be effective. Since the plant doesn’t absorb nutrients at this time, this could lead to chemical build-up in the soil, which will negatively impact the plant in the long run. 

Pruning

Even better news is that the rose-painted Calathea doesn’t need frequent pruning. 

One of the conditions that may necessitate pruning is when you notice that the plant has discolored or diseased leaves. Use sterilized shears or a sharp knife to cut the leaves off. 

If the leaf tips and edges are turning brown, then you don’t need to prune the leaves as the Calathea most likely has other issues that can quickly be resolved if you thoroughly inspect the plant.

Repotting

Calatheas aren’t fast-growing plants, so you don’t need to report them often.

Another factor that discourages repotting of this plant is its sensitive root system. Repotting the plant frequently may cause transplant shock.

You should repot the plant once you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes in your pot or above the soil line.

Repotting should be done at the beginning of the growing season, which is in early spring. Prepare fresh potting mix and transfer the plant to a larger pot.

Propagating the Geoppertia Roseopicta 

Propagating is an easy way to get new plants without having to go back to the market. 

Propagation may seem challenging, especially if you are a new gardener, but in the case of the Rose-painted Calathea, you’ll hardly struggle. The most effective method for generating new plants is root division. 

Since this plant is susceptible to transplant shock, it should be divided in spring to reduce the stress levels that it experiences.

Here are the steps you should follow for propagation:

1. Prepare a potting mix yourself, or buy a ready-made potting mix from a gardening store. Place this mix in a large container or a pot.
2. Remove the plant from its primary pot by gently tipping it to one side and sliding out the plant.
3. Remove the soil from the roots and gently brush them to remove any excess soil such that they are fully exposed.
4. Look for a stem with a few healthy roots and use a sterilized or sanitized tool to cut them off. 
5. Now, inspect the roots for any signs of infections or damage and remove any infected roots with sanitized tools, of course.
6. Divide the stems with healthy roots. Don’t use any tools for this process, as you could risk damaging the new sections you’re looking to propagate.
7. Place the sections you have selected on the container or pot with the fresh potting soil. Fill out the pot with more soil such that the roots are well covered. Do the same for the mother Calathea plant. 
8. Water the new plants you have propagated and the mother plant and place them in a place where they can receive plenty of indirect sunlight. 

Common Issues 

Like many other plants, houseplants will also experience issues when growing. Some plants are faced with more serious issues as compared to others. Luckily, Calatheas aren’t faced with significantly serious issues.

The common issues the plant faces are with regard to the leaves and a few pests and diseases that may attack it.

Let’s take a look at some common issues that your Georppertia Roseopicta may face.

Leaves Curling and Drooping

There are several reasons that may cause Calathea leaves to curl or droop. Factors such as overwatering, too much light, underwatering, the type of water used for watering, poor soil type, and pests may all cause this.

Luckily, you can easily remedy the situation if you notice it in time. Check on what may be causing the leaves to curl or drop, and follow the guide above to fix the plant.

Brown Leaves

Leaves turning brown in prayer plants is primarily because of low humidity levels. Once you notice the leaves of your plant turning brown, check on the humidity levels of the plant.

Another reason that leaves may turn brown is if you use the wrong water type for the plant.

Sometimes, it’s the edges of the leaves that start turning brown. This usually indicates low moisture levels as a result of underwatering. If this is the case, you’ll need to change your watering schedule. 

Yellow Leaves

This is one condition you should be really worried about. Once Calathea leaves start turning yellow, the condition could take a downturn drastically if you don’t act quickly. You may even run the risk of losing the entire plant.

Yellow leaves may signify that your plant is dehydrated, under-fertilized, naturally shedding, and excessively exposed to direct sunlight.

Too much watering is also a common cause of leaves yellowing in the Calathea. If the leaves turn yellow and the soil is overly moist, water your plant less and place it in a brighter spot. 

Sometimes, the leaves may be yellow as a result of the plant’s natural condition. For example, if the plant has recently been repotted, then some leaves may turn yellow and fall off. 

Pests and Diseases 

Pests are one of the nuisances you are likely to experience when gardening, no matter the plant. 

Many of the pests that attack the Calathea are tiny and almost invisible to the eye but they are extremely destructive; their size really doesn’t do justice to their might. 

Some of the pests you are likely to encounter on your plant are spider mites, mealybugs, scales, and, in some cases, fungi. 

While they’re tiny and extremely difficult to see, if you are careful enough when examining them, you’ll notice the distinct symptoms that characterize each pest.

Pests like scales are characterized by a sticky substance on the leaves. 

If your plant is being attacked by spider mites, you’ll notice some white or yellowish spots on the leaves and webbing, 

On the other hand, Mealybugs will exhibit a white fuzzy substance on the leaves of the Calathea roseopicta.

While there are several ways to handle these pests, some of the most effective remedies include using neem oil, rubbing alcohol, or using insecticidal soap. In case of a severe infestation, then you’ll have to opt for chemical pesticides.

Diseases 

Your Goeppertia roseopicta may suffer from diseases such as root rot that is brought about by excessive watering or soil with poor drainage. Some of the common signs of root rot include a foul smell from the soil and brown or black mushy roots, yellow leaves, and wilting. If you notice any of these signs, you should act with haste to save your plant.

The best way to handle the root rot problem is to repot the plant. First, you have to remove any affected roots with a sterilized tool and repot the plant in fresh potting soil and in a fresh pot or container.

Remember to use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes. 

Commonly Asked Questions

Is the Calathea roseopicta a rare plant?

No, the Goeppertia roseopicta isn’t a rare plant. While its leaves are unique, you can easily get this plant from reputable online vendors. However, hybrids of the plant, such as Cynthia and Corona, are fairly hard to find.

Is the Calathea roseopicta toxic?

One of the advantages of growing this Calathea as a house plant is that it’s not toxic to pets or humans, so it’s safe to keep in your home.

How long does the Calathea roseopicta grow?

The rose-painted Calathea is generally a bushy plant; it’ll grow to about 2 feet during the growing season and then stop growing in height and become bushier. 

Summing Up 

Growing a Calathea is one way to spice up your garden and add some interesting colors to break the monotony of green. 

The Calathea roseopicta, aka rose-painted Calathea, aka Goeppertia roseopicta, is one plant that clearly exhibits the unique colors of this genus.

While it may be a bit challenging to take care of, I assure you this is one of the most beautiful plants you’ll ever grow. 

Just follow the plant care guide that we have provided, and you’ll be marveling at the beauty of this plant in no time. 

Peperomia is one of the most common house plant species, and it comes in different types, such as Peperomia obtusifolia, Peperomia caperata, Peperomia argyreia, and Peperomia polybotrya. However, nothing matches the beauty of Peperomia angulata.

The Angulata climbing plant will make the perfect addition to a rustic or modern home design. 

Growing this plant in a hanging basket or pot in a well-lit room will add aesthetic to the space and capture the attention of any friends or guests you have visiting. 

Let’s take a look at the general specifications of this plant:

This article will outline the detailed care guide for this plant and other fascinating facts such as the background and common issues that may affect it. 

Let’s dive into it!

Plant Care Guide for the Peperomia Angulata

via mypetitegarden

The care guide for this plant is simple: it needs a little bit of water, sufficient indirect sunlight, and well-draining soil to thrive.

In the following section, we’ll dive into the specifics of the care guide for this unique plant. You should note that peperomia plants are usually low-maintenance, so they don’t need an extensive care guide.

Light

The Peperomia angulata, known as the radiator plant, thrives in indirect sunlight. The native habitat of the plant is in the Amazon region, and being a climber, it has gotten used to being shaded from direct sunlight.

Growing the plant indoors in an area with plenty of light is enough to mimic the shaded natural habitat of the plant.

While the plant thrives in medium light conditions, it can also tolerate low light. The lack of sufficient light will be exhibited in its foliage, which begins to lose the deep shade of green and slows down the plant’s growth. 

Keep the plant in a room where it can get sufficient indirect light, preferably near windows, but ensure it’s a few feet away; the hot afternoon sun may damage the plant’s delicate foliage.

As for placing, the best spot to keep your Angulata is in a west-or-east-facing room.

This ensures the plant is provided with the right light conditions such that the growth is fast, making the plant develop a lush, deep green color.

Water

The radiator plant is semi-succulent, so it’ll need frequent watering.

Since the plant is somewhat drought-tolerant, you must only water it once the soil has dried out completely.

During the winter period, when the plant is dormant, you should water even less as it won’t use a lot of water.

To avoid or minimize the chances of overwatering, water the plant only if it needs to be, and regularly check the soil for dryness before watering.

Humidity 

As we stated, this plant is only partly succulent; it still needs other tropical conditions, such as the climate and humidity. 

The good news is that this plant will survive even under normal household humidity levels. However, the best condition for this plant is when it’s under high humidity. So, to provide your plant with optimal conditions, raise the humidity around it. 

You can take several measures to increase the humidity levels, such as misting the leaves or using the pebble tray method. When misting, ensure the leaves don’t stay wet for too long, as this could develop fungal diseases. 

DIY methods like misting and pebble trays may not appeal to everyone, especially those who don’t like the aesthetic that pebble trays add. In this case, you can opt for an alternative method, such as a humidifier.

These gadgets increase the humidity around the plant automatically without endangering the plant. You can choose from several varieties, with some being inconspicuous such that they won’t interfere with your aesthetics. 

Alternatively, you can keep the plant in a terrarium or the bathroom if you’re on a tight budget and don’t want to risk your plant. 

Temperature 

Since this plant prefers a tropical climate, it goes without saying that it should be grown under warm temperatures. 

The Beetle peperomia can thrive at room temperature of about 65-75℉ (18-24℃). The plant can also survive in low temperatures of about 50℉ (10℃) but only for a limited period. 

It’s important to note that the prolonged exposure of the plant to extremely low or high temperatures could lead to stunted growth.

Avoid placing the plant in areas around drafts or frequent temperature changes, as this could have severe implications for the plant’s growth.

Soil

Being an epiphyte, the Peperomia angulata grows on trees in its natural habitat. Here, the plant feeds on the nutrients found in plant debris, air, and rain. 

When growing the plant as a houseplant, you must mirror these conditions to thrive. The plant should be grown in well-aerated and well-drained soil that is nutrient-rich. 

To increase the drainage of the soil, you can add some perlite or coco coir to your potting mix or succulent soil mix. Adding other components, such as compost, will enrich the substrate with nutrients. You can also add peat moss to the plant to improve moisture retention. 

Fertilizer

The Radiator plant responds well to fertilization, and while you should do it monthly, ensure you don’t overdo it. 

The best fertilizer for this plant is a balanced, general-purpose like triple 14 or triple 10. If you use a liquid fertilizer, ensure it’s diluted to half strength to minimize the risk of overfertilization. 

The best time to fertilize this plant is during the growing season. This is usually during the spring and summer as the plant enters its dormancy seasons in fall and winter. During the dormant season, you should reduce fertilization once every two months, or you can stop fertilizing altogether. 

Repotting

The Beetle peperomia has a shallow root system since it’s a slow grower, meaning you don’t need to repot it frequently. 

You can repot the plant every 3-4 years. However, if you notice the plant has become root-bound, i.e., roots coming out of the drainage holes, it’s time to repot the plant to a larger pot. 

Ensure you repot the plant to a pot one or two sizes larger than the original pot.

Repotting should be done during the beginning of the growing season, which will give the plant enough time to adjust to its new surroundings when it’s actively growing. 

Propagation

via plantladyraz

You can propagate Peperomia angulata in three ways: leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or propagating by division.

The easiest propagation method is by leaf or stem cuttings since these methods have a high chance of success. Let’s take a look at how you can propagate through these methods.

Propagation by stem cuttings 

This is one of the easiest and most successful methods to quickly get you new Peperomia angulatas. 

You can propagate the cuttings in water or soil, but the propagation by water method is much faster. 

Whether propagating by water or soil, the first step is to pick a healthy stem with several leaves and cut them just above the leaf nodes.

Next, you’ll have to place the cuttings in the medium that you have chosen, either in a jar of water or in a nursery pot full of fresh, well-drained soil. 

If you decide to propagate the plant by water, you’ll have to cut all the leaves submerged under water as they will rot and contaminate the water.

Changing the water every 1-2 days is essential to reduce the contamination risk. Once you notice root formation on the stems, you can remove them from water and plant them in fresh potting soil.

When propagating in soil, the only trick is ensuring the soil is moist. This improves the development of new roots as the plant adjusts to the new surroundings. Ensure you supply the cuttings with sufficient indirect sunlight during this period. 

Propagation by leaf cuttings 

This method is as successful as the stem cutting method. All you need to do is cut off a healthy leaf with about an inch-long petiole.

Dip the leaf in a rooting hormone once the region where you made the cutting has healed. Now, plant the leaf in fresh potting soil. If propagating multiple leaves, ensure they’re grown at least 4 inches (10cm) from each other. 

As usual, always keep the soil moist; once you notice new growth on the leaves, it’s time to repot the plant. 

Pruning and Cleaning 

Pruning is a vital plant care step in this peperomia. It would help if you did it to remove any diseased, scorched, or dried leaves. This is to improve the aesthetics and the overall health of plants.

Whatever the reason for pruning, always ensure you use sterilized tools such as shears and clippers to make cuttings on the plant. This reduces the risk of infecting the plant with bacteria, which may seriously impact the plant’s health.

More About the Peperomia Angulata

via mypetitegarden

Now that we have learned the essential care guide for the Beetle peperomia, it’s time to learn more about this plant, such as its background, how the flowers and foliage look, and the main issues that may affect it. 

Background 

Many different names in different parts of the world refer to this plant. While the plant’s scientific name is Peperomia angulata, it may also go by Peperomia quadrangularis. The other common name this plant goes by is the Beetle peperomia or the radiator plant.

The plant was first discovered growing on trees in South America in the Amazon Forest. After being domesticated, the plant can be found in many homes worldwide.

Having a Southern American native origin hasn’t made this plant inaccessible, and you can get it on online shops for less than $25. 

Flowers and Foliage

One of the most prominent features of this plant is the foliage. The plant has fleshy, dark green leaves striped with light green lines that are almost yellow. 

The leaves are oval and will sometimes hide the long, thin, almost inconspicuous flowers, but the enchanting foliage of the plant will attract all the attention. 

This plant will thrive well when grown with an accompanying friend, and the Peperomia Scandens variegata is perfect for this role. It’s a trailing plant with variegated leaves that can be excellent in highlighting the greenery of the radiator plant. 

Common Issues

When growing any plant, you must ensure you can deal with all issues that may arise along the way. 

In this section, you’ll learn about the common issues the Beetle peperomia may face and how to deal with them. 

Pests

This plant is resistant to many pests but may get attacked by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.

These pests will typically invade unhealthy plants, so the best way to protect your plant is to ensure it’s well cared for.

If the pests invade your plant, the first step is separating the infested plants from the healthy ones to reduce the risk of infestation and spread.

Once you have isolated the plant from other plants, it’s time to remove the pests. You can do this by either a strong water spray or by removing them by rubbing alcohol.

The best solution for large-scale infestation is spraying the plant with insecticide or neem oil. You can also use insecticidal soap.

Diseases

Luckily for the radiator plant, it doesn’t get attacked by many diseases except root rot, which is caused by overwatering.

Several signs of root rot on the plant include drooping, wilting, and discolored foliage. In such a situation, you must remove all the affected roots and repot the plant.

Another common fungal disease that may attack the plant is leaf spot. This disease is usually exhibited by lesions forming on the plant. Once you notice these signs, isolate the affected plant from the healthy ones to reduce the risk of the disease spreading.

Next, remove the affected leaves and spray some fungicide to clear all the fungal traces.

The best way to ensure the survival of your plants is to prevent these diseases from attacking this plant in the first place since you never know the scale of infection you’ll get. 

Frequently Asked Questions

via witch_crafts

Now that you know all about the Beetle peperomia, it will be even better if we answered some common questions that people have about this perennial.

What is the difference between Peperomia angulata and Peperomia rotundifolia?

While the two plants are around 12 inches (30 cm), the angulata has oval-shaped foliage larger than the Peperomia rotundifolia, whose leaves are small and button-like. 

Another common difference is in the color of the foliage. The angulata has dark green leaves with yellow-green lines running across the surface. The vegetation of rotundifolia is lighter, and the lines running across the leaves are inconspicuous. 

Is the Peperomia angulata safe to eat?

This plant is neither toxic to pets or humans, so they can technically eat it, but it has a mysterious taste. 

Since it’s safe to eat, people have used peperomias as a spice, such as the Peperomia pellucida, used not only as a spice but also as medicine.

Does the Peperomia angulata make a good indoor plant?

The Radiator plant is a perfect houseplant since it thrives in indirect sunlight and normal household humidity levels.

This plant will liven up your space with its unique foliage, and you won’t have to stress much about its maintenance. Watering doesn’t have to be daily; if you maintain its ideal temperatures, it can survive for years. 

What are the benefits of the Peperomia angulata?

There are several benefits to growing this plant, but the most obvious one is that it helps purify the air. In fact, growing three to four peperomias will create a natural air filter at no extra cost!

Beetle peperomia has also been shown to reduce the indoor concentration of formaldehyde by almost 50%, so if not for the beauty, this will be a good reason to buy one.

Since the plant is relatively drought resistant, forgetting to water it occasionally won’t have serious repercussions, though I would advise against it.

Final Remarks 

We have seen that Peperomia angulata is a low-maintenance epiphyte that’ll thrive under low light conditions and very little water.

The most essential component the plant needs to grow healthy is a well-drained and aerated substrate and fertilization occasionally. Ensure you prune it periodically to make the beautiful foliage even more attractive.

Since this article has covered some of the most common pests and diseases that may attack this plant, you’ll be well-versed in addressing any issues that may arise with your plant and even prevent them.

So, what more do you need from a houseplant besides a low-light, low-maintenance radiator plant?

Try one today and see how easy they are to grow!

Most plants usually have cheerful and exciting names. However, today, we will talk about a plant with quite a peculiar name!

It’s actually not such a cheerful name.

The Pilea depressa, also called baby tears, belongs to the Urticaceae family and the Pilea genus.

The Pilea depressa grows excellent as a climbing plant, vine, or a groundcover. Additionally, the plant is relatively easy to maintain, and proper care gives you stunning foliage that will adorn your home.

Today, we’ll discuss the Pilea depressa, including its outdoor and indoor care, propagation, and potential issues.

Here is the general information about this plant:

Let’s get to it!

What Does the Pilea Depressa Look Like?

Before we get into details about this plant’s appearance and growth, let’s first resolve some confusion that may arise.

You may encounter another plant with a nickname similar to this one if browsing for baby tears online or searching for it in plant stores.

The ‘true’ baby tears, also known as Soleirolia soleirolii, belongs to the Soleirolia genus and looks like the Pilea depressa.

The leaf edges are what set these two plants apart. The Pilea has wavy edges, unlike Soleirolii’s round leaf edges.

The Pilea depressa is particularly desired as ground cover due to its rapid development in an ideal environment. The plant boasts many incredible green leaves, similar to the Pilea tiny tears, the smaller version.

The growth rate of this plant varies depending on where you grow it: outdoors or indoors. The plant’s growth rate decreases when grown indoors, and repotting and division will be required once a year.

The appearance of this plant doesn’t change throughout the year since it’s an evergreen perennial. You might find a case whereby an outdoor plant’s leaves become pale during winter, but your depressa will revert to normal as soon as spring comes.

Care Guide of Pilea Depressa

Light Conditions

You need to take into consideration the native habitat of the Pilea plant to be able to provide it with the perfect level of light.

In its native habitat, the Pilea depressa doesn’t receive direct sunlight. The plant is protected from intense sun rays by huge plants with big leaves and only receives bright indirect light. You must mimic these conditions in your home for the plant to thrive.

First, you need to know where not to place this plant. Since the south-facing window sills receive more direct sunlight, you need to provide your Pilea some protection or find another place.

Sheer curtains are an excellent option in blocking the direct sun rays, thus preventing the wilting and scorching of the Pilea’s leaves.

Don’t place your Pilea plant in a north-facing window since the plant won’t receive the required amount of sunlight to thrive.

The best place to place your Pilea is in a west or east-facing window, where the plant will receive plenty of indirect light.

If your Pilea isn’t receiving enough natural light, you can use artificial light; it will respond just fine.

The best way, especially for a beginner, is to get a light meter that can accurately assess the light conditions.

Temperature

Similar to light, we have to rely on the native habitat of the Pilea to find the ideal temperature for the plant.

A healthy Pilea needs slightly warmer temperatures since the plant grows in warmer climates.

Even though the plant can tolerate slightly high temperatures, we recommend keeping the temperature between 65 – 75℉ to be on the safe side.

The most significant issues you may encounter are temperature fluctuations, but here’s how you can solve them:

Don’t place your Pilea near air conditioners, vents, or doors and windows you often open and close.

Avoid placing your plant near fireplaces, radiators, or other heating sources.

Humidity

The Pilea depressa is a bit more selective than other ordinary houseplants regarding humidity levels. The Pilea comes from humid environments. Therefore, mimicking such conditions indoors will be challenging since typical households don’t have high humidity.

Keep humidity levels at around 75%. That’s relatively high, and we know you’re wondering how you will reach that level.

Don’t worry! We have prepared a few excellent methods you can use to raise the humidity. The best action would be to combine the techniques I’ll share with you to eliminate the humidity problem completely.

Let’s have a look!

Transfer your Plant to a More Humid Room

The rooms with water sources, such as bathrooms and kitchens, naturally have higher humidity.

Placing your Pilea in these rooms is probably for the best. Although people prefer having plants in bedrooms and living rooms, you should at least put one in every room.

Pebble Tray Method

Suppose you have plant enthusiasts in your friend circle. In that case, I’m sure you’ve encountered some decorative pebbles placed below their plants’ pots. 

This pebble tray isn’t only for decorating the pot; it has another purpose. 

The pebble tray method is one of the most popular methods of increasing humidity levels, and it has been proven effective by many gardeners (even us). Still, this method alone can’t achieve higher than 60% humidity levels.

The good thing about this method is that it has a DIY version. You only need water, pebbles, and a shallow dish to make your humidity tray.

Put the pebbles in the dish, add water, and place your Pilea depressa on it. The water in the container will evaporate and increase the plant’s humidity.

This plant has a disadvantage, though. The plant’s roots are very sensitive and can rot when exposed to water, even briefly; you must be very careful.

Therefore, limit the amount of water you put in the dish.

@plantzoentjes

Create a Microclimate

Creating a microclimate sounds like something unique that requires a lot of knowledge, research, and investment.

Well, we’re here to tell you that it’s quite an efficient and simple method of raising humidity levels.

Place your other houseplants, such as Pilea glaucas and Begonias, near your depressed clearweed. Maybe some company will help with its depression!

On a more serious note, placing your plants near each other to create a microclimate is a straightforward and efficient method of raising humidity. 

Furthermore, you’ll have a more beautiful plant collection!

Two Pots Method

As the name suggests, this method requires two pots and some sphagnum moss.

Look for a much bigger pot than the one with your depressa so that it can fit in. Ensure there are about 2 inches between the rims.

Add some water and sphagnum moss to the bottom of the bigger pot, and place the pot with your Pilea on the moss. Nature will take care of the rest.

The humidity level around your plant will increase as the water evaporates from the sphagnum moss.

Use a Humidifier

A humidifier is an excellent method of increasing humidity levels. However, this method could be more pricey compared to the others.

Apart from that one disadvantage, this is probably the most efficient method of achieving the humidity levels your Pilea requires.

New humidifiers today come with a humidity monitoring option. You only need to input the humidity level you prefer, and the humidifier will take care of the rest.

Even though it may seem a little expensive, especially for a beginner, having a humidifier is much better than watching your plants die due to incorrect humidity levels.

Soil

There are four vital factors to consider regarding the perfect soil for the Pilea depressa: water retention, nutrition, drainage, and pH level.

It would be best to test the soil before putting your depressed clearweed in it.

The Pilea depressa needs slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.0 – 6.0 to thrive.

Regarding drainage, your potting mix requires components that prevent excess water in the soil.

Still, the Jacob’s tear plant also needs well-moisturized soil. Your potting mix should also have components that retain water well.

Combine perlite and peat moss to achieve this, or purchase a regular potting mix and add perlite.  

Enough potting soil is critical for drainage, but you can purchase a pot with drainage holes to improve drainage. Buy a cache pot also and put the one with holes in it to conceal its unattractiveness.

Watering

This is the most vital step of the Pilea Depressa care guide. You need to know the type of water, how to water, and when to water your Pilea plant.

Let’s have a look!

Frequency of Watering

Many factors influence the watering schedule for this type of plant. Still, the general rule is to water it every 4 – 8 days.

The soil moisture content will guide you in determining the ideal time for watering the Pilea plant; you should keep it moist and prevent it from drying out completely.

In this case, however, being moist doesn’t mean being overly wet. The roots will most likely rot if they sit in the water.

You need to determine the soil’s moisture to avoid such a scenario. Luckily, the following methods will help you achieve just that!

Insert your finger into the soil

This is one of the most popular methods used for checking moisture. Most experienced gardeners use only this method to check the moisture content. Still, it would be a bit challenging for beginners.

It’s pretty simple – only insert your finger into the soil and feel its wetness. Water the plant if the soil is dry an inch below the soil line.

Recheck the following day if the soil is wet. Combine this method with the ones discussed below until you gain some experience.

You can also insert a wooden stick about an inch or two into the soil. Water your Pilea plant if the stick is dry and no soil remains.

Check the soil color

Dry topsoil is usually light brown, meaning it needs watering.

On the other hand, soil with adequate water is dark brown. However, if your soil is mushy, you have a problem.

Lift your pot

You can also determine moisture by lifting the plant’s pot. This method is ideal for smaller plants such as succulents and Pileas.

A heavy pot indicates less watering is required. You’ll need some practice to master this technique since you may be unsure of the plant’s weight.

Use a moisture meter

This is probably the safest and most reliable method for checking moisture levels. A moisture meter will be handy, especially if you’re a beginner gardener.

Purchase a moisture meter that can also detect the soil’s pH level.

Watering Technique

Let’s discuss the best watering techniques for the Pilea plant.

First, let’s take a look at the top watering method. This involves watering the topsoil only and not the leaves!

Use a watering can with a long neck to control the water flow effectively. Add water gradually until you see it come out of the drainage holes.

The other method is called bottom watering. We recommend using a larger bucket for this method. Fill half the bucket with water and put your Pilea plant in it. Let it sit in the water for 15 minutes, then take it out to dry.

Both methods are effective, and you must choose one that suits your preferences.

Type of Water

You’ll need to consider the natural habitat of this plant to determine the perfect water for it.

Filtered water is a good option if there’s no access to rainwater. Use tap water as a last resort since it may contain high concentrations of fluoride and chlorine, which harm your plant.

Letting tap water sit overnight is an excellent method of reducing the high concentrations of these chemicals, so allow tap water to sit first if you use it.

Fertilizer

The Jacob’s tear plant doesn’t need a lot of food. Nonetheless, it would be best to implement a monthly feeding regimen during its growing season.

The Pilea plant doesn’t require food during the dormancy period, the winter months. The plant’s growth rate also slows down significantly since it’s resting.

Use a liquid houseplant fertilizer for your Pilea depressa to give it all the necessary nutrients.

Pruning

Depending on how you grow it, you may need to prune your Pilea plant.

The Pilea depressa will require occasional pruning when grown indoors. It must also be pruned occasionally if you keep it in a hanging pot.

If you plant it outside, you can allow it to grow naturally as ground cover or a vine. You’ll need to cut off any affected leaves to train your plant to grow in a particular way.

Remember to sanitize your shears before using them to prune your plant.

Repotting

The Pilea depressa has a slightly faster growth rate than other indoor houseplants. Therefore, it’ll benefit from repotting once a year or so due to this feature.

Observing the roots is the best way to tell if your plant needs repotting. When you notice them becoming compact, thick, and coming out of drainage holes, start preparing yourself to get a larger pot.

Repot your Pilea during spring if you’re growing it indoors to avoid transplant shock. Use a garden spade to ensure you carefully remove the root ball.

Brush away the soil surrounding the roots once you take your Pilea depressa out of its pot. Fill your new pot with adequate potting mix and transfer your plant to it.

Lastly, gently tap the soil around the plant’s base before watering it.

@plantmum2020

Staking

How you grow your Pilea depressa will determine if it needs staking. For example, staking might be necessary if you plan to grow your plant as a climbing vine.

Frequently tie small sections of the stalk to a moss pole or trellis to enable the plant to climb. The plant may cease its need for support as it grows older.

Drooping often occurs when the plant vines extend. Staking will be unnecessary if your Pilea depressa is in a hanging basket; it will look better!

You might, however, require some assistance if you want a more traditional ornamental plant.

Propagation of Pilea Depressa’ Baby Tears’ Plant

Propagation is a quick way of adding more Pilea depressas to your terrariums or fairy gardens.

You can propagate the Pilea plant through stem cuttings or division.

Let’s discuss both methods to find out more!

Stem Cuttings

You’ll need a few things to propagate your Pilea depressa through stem cuttings: a jar of water, a nursery pot, a new potting mix, and shears.

Use rubbing alcohol or bleach to prepare a sterilizing solution for your shears and avoid contamination.

Make a 6 – 8 inch incision with at least 2 -3 nodes, and put the cutting in a jar full of lukewarm water.

Ensure one of the nodes is in the water when submerging the cutting.

Place the jar with the Pilea plant stem, cutting in bright, indirect light. Remember to check on your plant regularly since some parts may rot, and your efforts will be all for nothing. It would be best to change the water every 2 -3 days.

You’ll notice new roots forming after a few weeks. You can transfer them to a pot when they’re approximately 2 inches long.

Division

Propagation of the Pilea depressa through division is quite simple.

You need only select a part below the stems to make a cutting and dig below the stem using a garden spade until you collect a few roots.

Separate the stem from the roots and transplant it to a pot with enough potting soil.

Simple as that! Expect new growth after a few weeks.

Growing the Pilea Depressa Outdoors

We mentioned how the Pilea depressa can be an excellent ground cover outdoors.

The first thing to consider when growing your Pilea outdoors is the time of the year to plant it. The best time is after the winter months when temperatures slightly increase and the threat of frost is averted.

Daytime temperatures should be above 70℉ for your Pilea depressa to fully develop. On the other hand, soil temperatures should be above 60℉.

Established plants are usually resilient enough when the temperature drops and can be brought indoors.

Single Pilea plants planted outdoors should be spaced 12 inches apart.

Plant your Pilea in a grid pattern if you plan to use it as ground cover and use the same spacing as single plants. Rows should be spaced about 8 – 10 inches.

The Pilea plant flourishes outdoors in partial shade. You can place your plant below trees if you’ve grown it in a pot.

You don’t really need to provide mulch to this plant since it acts as ground cover. However, if the potting soil doesn’t drain effectively, you could put your baby tears in a rock or pebble garden. Rocks will help prevent fungus growth by acting as a barrier between the leaves and stagnant water.

Common Issues

The following are issues you may experience with your Pilea depressa and how you can solve them!

Diseases

The Pilea plant is particularly susceptible to root rot, which is a result of overwatering. When infected by root rot, your plant will exhibit the following signs: drooping, foul odor, discolored roots, mushy soil, wilting and browning leaves, and yellowing.

Remove your Pilea from the old pot once you notice signs of root rot, and use sterilized tools to remove the affected roots. After removing the roots, repot your baby tears in a new pot filled with a fresh potting mix.

Pests

Whiteflies are some of the common pests that attack the Pilea depressa. You can see them on the underside of the plant’s leaves. They’re usually the same size as gnats but resemble moths. These tiny pests are responsible for leaving a sticky fluid called honeydew, which can cause mildew.

Aphids are other common pests that attack the Pilea depressa. An aphid infestation is dangerous and can cause your plant to wither and die. Some signs of an aphid infestation include yellow and drooping leaves or a mold-like black substance on the plant’s leaves.

Neem oil or rubbing alcohol are efficient methods of handling these pests. Dip a soft sponge on one of the two solutions and rub the affected leaves.

Brown and Yellow Leaves

Besides root rot, brown and yellow leaves can also be caused by direct sunlight.

Exposing your Pilea to direct sun for a long time will result in sunburn, which can cause the leaves to change or even die.

Remove the affected leaves and look for a new place to put your plant. Ensure you use the tips in the article to find the right spot!

Wilting

Overwatering problems are the most common regarding watering of the Pilea plant. However, waiting too long before watering or forgetting to water your plant will lead to an underwatered plant.

Wilting is the most common sign on an underwatered Pilea depressa.

Provide your baby tears frequent watering until you notice some signs of improvement.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is the Baby Tears toxic?

The Pilea depressa isn’t toxic and doesn’t affect pets or humans. As such, you can grow it as ground cover outdoors, as a climbing or vining plant, or as a houseplant without worrying about your loved ones being harmed.

Is the depressed clearweed a hardy plant?

The Pilea depressa can be regarded as a hardy plant. It flourishes in warmer climates when grown outdoors and can be successfully grown in many areas. 

You need only pay attention to the light and watering of this low-maintenance plant, and you’ll be good to go!

Final Remarks

Using Pileas as houseplants has become a popular trend nowadays. The Pilea depressa is a new variety that’ll amaze people when it reaches its full potential.

Provide your depressa with well-draining soil, warm temperatures, high humidity, and bright indirect light, and it’ll be happy. Fertilize your plant monthly during the growing season and water it when an inch below the soil line is dry.

Propagation of the Pilea is very simple, meaning you can give it to your fellow plant enthusiasts as a gift!

That’s all we have to share for today! Bye!

Have you noticed how popular Scandinavian moss has become as bathroom decor? Adding plants to the interior of this room is not an unusual design trend. On the contrary, the bathroom can look far more organized, homely and welcoming if flowers are part of its decor.

Luckily, moss is not the only plant that can grow in the bathroom environment. We have prepared a list of Beautiful Flowering Houseplants for Your Bathroom that enjoy the moisture in the bathroom and can absorb it. Take advantage of our collection of houseplants for the bathroom and make its interior more inviting.

1. Bromeliads

Bromeliads are tropical plants that can bloom in places where most houseplants cannot. Their blooms could be pink, yellow or red and usually last 1 month.

Bromeliads love the humidity of the bathroom but only if there is good air circulation in the room. That can be ensured with an opened window or a fan.

2. Cyclamen

Cyclamen make a lovely impact on the bathroom interior with their dark green velvet leaves and magenta blooms.

The Cyclamen prefer humid conditions and cool temperatures but also plenty of light. Make sure that you place the pot on the windowsill of the bathroom.

3. Begonia

Most Begonia varieties love the humidity of the bathroom. They look great in a bathroom interior with their large leaves and beautiful flowers which need a bright spot like the windowsill in the bathroom.

Watering is the key to keeping Begonias fit. Water only when the soil feels dry, otherwise its roots may rot.

4. Orchids

Orchids are a typical houseplant but not when it comes to the bathroom interior. Surprisingly or not, the growth conditions the Orchids require make them suitable for care in the bathroom.

The humidity of the bathroom sets a favorable environment for the Orchids’ growth having in mind that they are tropical plants. It is a fact that Orchids can adapt to the light amount of the bathroom but to ensure their thriving, place the pots on the windowsill.

5. Azalea

Azalea absorbs the moisture in the bathroom and also likes a warm environment. This makes it the perfect plant to decorate your bathroom with. It will reward you with rich blooms among dark green glossy leaves.

Its bloom colors vary from white to magenta and orange. Deadheading is important to stimulate the production of new blooms.

6. Peace Lily

The Peace Lily is known to absorb moisture from the air. It also prefers spots with indirect light. These categorize it as another plant good for growing in a bathroom. Its absorption ability will also limit the mold and mildew in the bathroom.

The elegance of the foliage and the white flowers of the Peace Lily will brighten up the bathroom and will anchor the feel of lux in it.

Are you looking to break the green monotony and add color to your garden? The Syngonium Neon may just be the plant you need.

This unique plant has pink foliage that’s sure to be a highlight of any space.

Here are some common facts about the plant that you should be versed with:

Away with the basics, now let’s dive deep into what you need to know before planting this plant, whether in your indoor garden or outdoors.

Care for this plant is relatively simple, making it the ideal choice for beginner gardeners.

In this article, we’ll discuss all the critical facts about this plant and the essential plant care tips to help you take care of it, especially if it becomes afflicted with pests or diseases.

We’ll also divulge more details about this plant, such as its appearance, background, benefits, and other similar plants.

Ultimately, you may just become an expert gardener for the Syngonium ‘Neon’! 

Plant Care Guide for the Syngonium Neon

The Neon Robusta is one of the low-maintenance plants that can survive under mild neglect.

You need to provide sufficient indirect sunlight, well-drained soil, and enough water to create the perfect growing environment for this plant.

In the following section, you’ll learn about the conditions for your plant to grow and thrive.

Even though the light requirements for the plant may be more demanding compared to similar plant categories, such as the philodendron, this shouldn’t stop you from getting this jewel.

Light Requirements

All plants require light to grow, which is no different for the Syngonium Neon. It thrives in an area with bright, indirect light. 

While the plant can tolerate even lower light levels, its vivid, pink foliage may fade under such conditions. Additionally, the plant could get leggy if it lacks sufficient light.

Keep this plant with plenty of indirect sunlight to get the best possible results. Exposing it to direct sunlight may lead to the leaves getting scorched and severe sunburn. 

If faced with whether to expose the plant to direct sunlight or keep it under shade, it’ll be better off in a shaded environment. 

As for the placement, the plant will do well in west, east, or south-facing rooms if it’s shielded from direct sunlight.

For people with access to natural indirect sunlight, it’s better to go with artificial lights, which can provide all the necessary light without worrying about direct sunlight.

Since this plant thrives in moderate light, set the grow lights between 200-300 or adjust them according to where you stay.

Water Requirements 

Since this plant is from a tropical climate, it’ll thrive with plenty of water. However, ensure the plant isn’t soaked or drained in water, which could lead to root rot.

The general rule for watering houseplants is irrigating after the first few inches of the soil are dry to the touch. It’s, however, essential to note that this schedule may change depending on the environment and the plant’s watering needs.

When growing the plant in pots or containers, always ensure there are drainage holes that can let the water drain down.

The watering frequency highly depends on the external environment, such as the light conditions, the season, and the climate.

If you live in a hot and dry region where plants are exposed to high-intensity light, you may need to water the plant twice weekly. In regions where the humidity level is high, and the rate of evaporation is low, the plant can be watered once every two weeks during summer and once a month in the winter (dormant season).

Climate and Temperature

If you don’t reside in a tropical region or regions with a tropical climate, you better grow the Syngonium neon indoors, where it’s easy to control the growing environment.

Temperature

Warm temperatures and high humidity levels characterize tropical climates. This plant will thrive in areas with temperatures between 60-80℉ (15-27℃). While the plant can withstand colder or hotter temperatures, other requirements, such as watering and humidity, must be optimal for the plant to thrive.

The Syngonium can tolerate temperatures as low as 50℉ (10℃), but ensure they don’t drop lower than this as the plant is frost-sensitive.

Additionally, it’s vital to ensure the plant is kept away from places with drafts or frequent temperature changes, as it can wither and droop.

Humidity 

The plant will thrive in a high-humidity area of 60-90%. While the average home humidity is 30-40%, you can quickly increase your home’s humidity using several methods. 

Here are five ways you can increase Neon Robusta’s humidity requirements:

1. Use a Terrarium

This is one of the most uncomplicated and straightforward methods of increasing humidity levels around your plant.

Using a terrarium is simple and will save time and trouble.

Water the plant and place it in a glass container, which allows light to pass through. As the water evaporates from the plant, it’s trapped in the terrarium, thus increasing the humidity levels. 

2. Use Pebble trays

This is another age-old and proven method of increasing your plants’ humidity.

Simply fill a tray with pebbles and pour some water on it. Then, place the plant on the pebbles such that the roots are not in direct contact with the water. 

Ensure the plant is in a place where it can receive plenty of light.

As the water around the tray evaporates, the humidity around the plant will increase.

3. Use a Humidifier

Increasing humidity levels doesn’t get more straightforward than this. A humidifier adjusts the humidity around your plants as you need it to be. You just have to set the right humidity and leave the plant to enjoy its optimum environment.

4. Place the plant in a Bathroom 

A bathroom is one of the most humid places in your home. The consistent water supply in this area ensures such high humidity levels.

While placing your plant in a bathroom may not look ideal, it can be an excellent decoration, even a unique one!

5. Spray some water on the plant

Increasing the humidity levels may be as simple as spraying the plant with water. Spraying the leaves with water occasionally may ensure the plant is humid enough. 

However, please don’t get so used to this method as it can sometimes backfire. This is because applying too much water on the plant may lead to the development of fungal infections. 

Let the leaves dry between mistings to ensure you have minimized this risk.

Soil

The Syngonium Neon does well in moderately acidic soils with pH levels between 5.5 and 6.5. However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

The substrate must also be rich in organic material and nutrients, not to forget well-drained. 

You can create a well-balanced potting mix for your Syngonium using potting soil, perlite, vermiculite, and peat moss.

Fertilizer

Most plants need to be occasionally fertilized to yield the best results. The Syngonium podophyllum should be fertilized at least once a month during its growing season with a liquid fertilizer.

Since this plant isn’t a heavy feeder, it’ll survive fine with occasional fertilization. If you want to go a mile further, you can fertilize the plant each time you water, but ensure it’s done with a diluted fertilizer so the fertilizer doesn’t burn the plants.

During the dormant seasons, such as winter, the plant won’t need fertilization, but you can add light fertilizer once every three months.

Remember, the plant needs to be watered before it’s fertilized, as this reduces the overfertilization risk.

Repotting

The Neon Robusta isn’t a speedy grower, but you must repot it occasionally so the plant doesn’t become root-bound.

Repotting isn’t a significant requirement and can be done once every two years, or when you get a hanging basket you want to show off.

The best time for reporting is during the growing season, usually in spring or summer. This way, the plant will have enough time to adjust to its new surroundings. 

When repotting, go for a pot 1-2 sizes larger than the previous pot. Fill the pot with a suitable potting mix and plant the Syngonium. 

Ensure you water the plant and keep it under optimal conditions so it can recover.

Propagating a Syngonium Neon

The Syngonium is one of the easiest plants to propagate. Propagation can be done by stem cuttings, which is relatively easy and will be a piece of cake even for beginners. Propagation in water is recommended since it has a high success rate.

However, knowing how to propagate the plant with both methods is essential.

Water Propagation

This propagation method takes less time than soil propagation and has a very high success rate. 

To propagate your Syngonium using this method, you’ll first need to find a healthy stem with aerial roots and healthy foliage.

Next, remove the leaves at the bottom of the stem and place the cuttings in a water-filled jar, preferably a clear glass jar. Ensure no leaves are submerged in water, which could lead to contamination.

Place the jar in a bright spot and change the water after every two days.

You should notice root formation on the new cuttings after 3-4 weeks, and that’ll be a good time to transfer the cuttings to their new home.

Place the cutting in a pot filled with fresh potting mix, water it, and ensure it’s placed where it has optimal growing conditions. 

Propagation in Soil

Compared to propagation in water, this method is more risky since there are instances where the propagated cuttings won’t make it. To improve the chances of rooting, always pick stems with aerial roots.

Cut a healthy stem below the leaf node, and dip the cutting in a rooting hormone to accelerate root formation. 

Next, plant the cuttings on a well-drained and well-aerated substrate. 

To increase the chances of success, keep other conditions such as watering, humidity, and temperature at optimal levels.

The main downside to this method is that you won’t notice root formation, but when you tug at the cuttings and feel a little resistance, it may be a sign of root formation. 

Once roots have formed, you must transfer the cutting to a bigger pot.

Cleaning and Pruning 

Any Experienced gardener knows the instrumentality of pruning and cleaning for a plant.

The Syngonium neon is no exception and will need to be cleaned and pruned regularly since the plant may collect dirt. Cleaning also ensures the vivid pink color of the foliage is well visible.

To clean the plant, use a soft, wet cloth to wipe the leaves and dry them with a soft, dry cloth afterward. You may also let the leaves dry independently, increasing the plant’s moisture levels.

The most important thing is to ensure the foliage is dry, as wet leaves could attract fungal diseases. 

Pruning 

This is another crucial part of the Neon Robusta plant care guide. Pruning should be done to remove dead, sunburned, diseased, or discolored leaves on the plant. Cutting out these leaves reduces the spread of infections and saves the plant from wasting valuable energy.

The Syngonium Neon can also be pruned for a bushier effect, but ensure you don’t cut off more than one-third of the entire plant as this could pose a risk to the plant’s survival. 

Common Issues 

Health comes at a premium even for plants, and you shouldn’t take healthy and pest-free plants for granted. 

There are, however, some measures you can take to avoid dealing with unhealthy plants and reduce the risk of your plants being afflicted.

This section will describe the most common pests and diseases that may impact your Syngonium Neon and how to prevent them from occurring or remedying your plant. 

Pests 

Pests will always go for the unhealthy, overwatered, or underwatered plants. Therefore, the best way to ensure your plant isn’t attacked by pests is to offer good growing conditions.

It also happens that pests can sometimes attack for no reason, so it’s essential to understand how to deal with them.

The most common pests that attack this plant are mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and scales. As soon as you notice any of these bugs on your plant, you need to isolate your plant from other plants to reduce the danger of all the plants getting infested. 

The next step should be to spray some neem oil or a suitable insecticide on the affected plant until all the pests are gone. 

You can also use natural solutions to deal with these bugs, such as rubbing alcohol on the affected parts or using a Q-tip to remove them.

When using natural solutions such as rubbing alcohol, avoid touching other parts, such as the stems and leaves, as this could irritate the plant. 

@plantgazing

Diseases

The good thing about the Neon Robusta is that it’ll let you know if it’s exposed to poor conditions. Therefore, it’s easy to notice when your plant is afflicted with a disease. 

Root rot 

This occurs if the plant is overwatered, especially if the soil isn’t well-drained or the pot has no drainage holes.

This disease will be characterized by drooping and wilting leaves, stunted growth, and yellow leaves. The faster you attend to this problem, the higher the chances of your plant surviving. 

Remove any mushy and dark roots from the plant with a sterilized tool to treat root rot. Now, plant the soil in a new pot with fresh potting soil. 

Leaf Spot

This is another common issue caused by incorrect or improper watering techniques. Leaf spot is usually caused by wet leaves that result from misting or overhead watering. Always ensure the leaves of your plant are always dry.

If you notice any brown, yellow, or dark spots on the leaves of one of the plants, isolate it from the others.

Next, cut off the diseased leaves and spray some fungicide on the plant. 

This condition can also escalate quickly, so dealing with it immediately is essential.

Discolored Leaves 

problem. 

For one, yellow leaves can indicate a watering problem, either overwatering or underwatering. To be sure which condition is ailing your plant, check the soil. A soggy and wet soil shows overwatering, so you should let the soil dry out. If the soil is dried, you should immediately water it. 

Yellow leaves may also indicate insufficient nutrients or minerals in the plant. Leaves may turn yellow if they aren’t getting sufficient nitrogen, so you’ll have to replenish the plant with fertilizer or other nutrient-rich sources such as manure. 

The leaves may also turn brown, primarily indicating dry air and insufficient humidity around the plant. This can be quickly resolved by increasing the humidity around the plant.

Another cause of discolored leaves in your Syngonium Neon is exposure to too much direct sunlight. This usually results in sunburns, which impacts the leaves. 

Even though the plant needs light to grow, exposure to intense direct sunlight will cause severe damage to it, so always keep it in a place with indirect sunlight. 

More To Know About the Syngonium Neon

Now that you know how to take care of your Syngonium Neon, it’s time to learn more interesting facts about this plant.

When looking for a Neon Robusta to grow, information about its appearance, background, and benefits may be helpful, especially if you aren’t sure which plant is right for you.

Here is some crucial information you should know as well as similar cultivars you can grow to increase plant variety in your garden.

History and Background 

Did you know the name Syngonium has Greek origins? The name is composed of the words Syn (together, with) and gone (gonad), which combine to refer to female flowers’ ovaries. 

Other common names for the plant include the Pink Arrowhead vine and the Pink Arrowhead plant.

Some people will refer to the Syngonium podophyllum as the Nephtytis, even though the two come from two different genera. While the two plants appear similar, the Syngonium got its genus in 1879. 

The plant is a member of the Araceae family, closely related to aglaonemas, Philodendrons, and anthuriums.

Appearance

This Syngonium is a climber and will be perfect for your hanging baskets. You can also grow the plant in a large pot and stake it to allow it to climb and give your garden a tropical vibe. 

The leaves of the plant are pink and will sometimes have green variegation; they are also shaped differently depending on the age of the plant. Young leaves are heart-shaped, and older leaves assume an arrowhead look.

Even though the plant doesn’t bloom when grown indoors, its bright-colored leaves are enough to beautify your home. Flowering won’t significantly impact the look of the plant since they are inconspicuous. 

Even though the green spathe enveloping the green-white spadix may not be unique, the blush pink color in the leaves is sure to attract all the attention. 

Benefits

Growing this plant not only brightens up your space but also has a couple of environmental benefits. For one, the plant helps with air purification, removing harmful toxins such as formaldehyde, toluene, xylene, and benzene, which are common in almost every home. 

The Syngonium podophyllum is also excellent in absorbing carbon dioxide, significantly improving air quality.

The faster transpiration rate in the plant also makes it a natural humidifier. Placing several plants around your home lets you quickly eliminate dry air. 

Similar Cultivars 

This plant has several similar cultivars, such as the Pink Allusion, Red Heart, and Neon Robusta. 

In this section, we will explore the different cultivars of this plant and their main differences so you can choose the one that suits you.

The Syngonium Red Heart 

This cultivar is easy to notice since, as the name suggests, the foliage is more heart-shaped than arrowhead-shaped. 

The leaves are dusky pink, and the plant will easily complement the Neon Robusta.

The Syngonium Pink Allusion

This variety is very similar to the Neon Robusta and it may be even difficult to tell them apart. The only way to tell the difference is by examining the color of the leaves.

The Neon Robusta has light leaves that are less spiky than the Syngonium Pink Allusion. 

Frequently Asked Questions

We have probably exhausted everything you need to know about the Syngonium Neon. 

Now, it’s time to examine people’s most common questions about this plant.

Is the Syngonium Neon Robusta rare?

Even though it was previously considered a rare plant, Syngonium is no longer rare and can be found in many homes. You can get the plant online with prices starting at $12.

How Can I Tell If My Syngonium Neon is Dying?

There are many signs, including change of color, wilting or drooping leaves, and stunted growth. If you notice this, your plant may be ailing or even dying. 

Try looking for the underlying issue causing these symptoms in your plant. In most cases, this may be a fungal infection.

Once you find out what is affecting your plant, address the issue as fast as possible to increase the plant’s chances of survival. 

Is the Syngonium Neon Safe to eat?

Don’t try to ingest this plant, as all its parts contain the chemical calcium oxalate.

Ingestion of this plant will cause a burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and tongue. It could also cause the mouth to swell and lead to difficulties in breathing. 

Consumption of this plant by pests will lead to vomiting and drooling. 

Closing Remarks 

The Syngonium neon is one of the most unique houseplants you can grow. Its striking foliage has a mesmerizing feel about it and will surely capture your gaze.

Since it’s easy to care for, SyngoniumNeon is a fantastic choice even for beginners, so don’t shy away from gifting your friends one. 

With the extensive care guide outlined in this article and how to deal with the different ailments and pests that may affect the plant, you can successfully grow your own Neon Robusta. You are also assured to deal with any emergencies that may arise.

It’s important to note that this Syngonium will thrive well around some company, so you can grow some relatives of it to uplift your plants. 

Why don’t you go ahead and try growing one?

The Philodendron Warscewiczii has a name that’s difficult to pronounce, but the plant has easy care requirements.

The Philodendron Warscewiczii is a low-maintenance plant that lights up any garden it’s placed in, and it’s an advantage to own one!

Due to its minimal care requirements, it’s the perfect plant for beginners, and you still get a beautiful plant to adorn your home. 

If you are a fan of The Witcher novels and series, you’ll most likely adore this lovely plant. Keep on reading to find more interesting facts about this fantastic plant.

But first, let’s look at the general information:

Although the Philodendron Warscewiczii is toxic to pets and humans, it’s still an excellent choice to integrate into your decor: it will transform your space into a mythical setting for enjoying the adventures of Sapkowski’s Geralt of Rivia.

This article will discuss the history of Philodendron Warscewiczii, its care requirements, and some tips to help your plant thrive.

Let’s start!

Philodendron Warscewiczii Aurea Flavum Care Requirements 

via boom.boom.botanical

The Philodendron Warscewiczii has a simple care guide: keep it in partial shade and provide it with some water, and your plant is ready.

Still, if you love details regarding plant care, there’s more we will share about this peculiar plant.

You can grow this plant alongside the philodendron’ Lickety Split’: they have similar care requirements as many philodendron plants. Even though a philodendron plant care guide may be straightforward, it will be rewarding.

Light

Also known by its common name, Snowflake Leaf Philodendron, the Philodendron Warscewiczii has similar light requirements to any other philodendron.

The plant thrives in medium to bright indirect sunlight and you should avoid placing it in direct sunlight for too long: it will get sunburn.

If you are growing this plant indoors, place it near a west or south-facing window to receive the required light to flourish.

Too much light makes the plant wither and turn brown or red, while too little sunlight will cause the beautiful foliage of this plant to lose its color.

Water 

This beautiful plant’s light requirements are pretty straightforward compared to water requirements. However, the water needs are also very easy to remember!

Check if the topsoil is completely dry by inserting your finger 5-7 centimeters (2-3 inches) deep and feeling the soil. Water your Philodendron Warscewiczii if the topsoil is dry. Don’t water the plant if the topsoil isn’t dry; wait a few more days and come back to check again.

It’s best to water tropical plants and aroids like this philodendron plant to thoroughly wet the soil before you drain the excess water.

The next thing you must do is wait for the topsoil to dry again and repeat the process.

Watering the plant outside these schedules will lead to overwatering and, ultimately, root rot: it can kill your whole plant! Therefore, don’t overwater your plant!

Humidity

via sammy_and_his_plants

This particular care requirement is an interesting one. Since the Philodendron Warscewiczii is a tropical plant, the obvious assumption would be that it loves humid areas.

Well, guess what? This plant actually adores dry environments pretty much as well. This plant keeps getting more and more enjoyable!

There’s no need to spray the plant with water, buy a humidifier, or use the pebble tray method.

Place this low-maintenance plant in a 50-70% humid or dry room and it will flourish easily.

A fun historical fact is that the Polish first discovered the plant in a forested area. This might explain its tendency to adapt to dry and humid conditions.

Temperature

The temperature requirements for the Philodendron Warscewiczii will come as no surprise. The tropical plant needs warmth, similar to a tropical rainforest, as it adorns your home.

The plant can’t tolerate temperatures lower than 10℃ (50℉). Keep your thermostat between 15 and 30℃ (60 and 86℉), and your plant will be ready. There aren’t any other special requirements needed.

You should note that the plant dislikes sudden temperature changes, drafts to be specific, so ensure you protect it.

Soil

The Philodendron Warscewiczii thrives in well-drained soil. This medium is a critical factor for the plant to reach its potential!

You can easily make well-draining soil at home, so don’t worry. You only need to grab some perlite or pumice while purchasing your potting mix.

A well-drained soil ensures the roots have enough oxygen, preventing them from drowning in water and getting infected with root rot. 

Increase aeration in your soil by adding orchid black, and incorporate horticultural charcoal to eliminate all impurities.

Fertilizer

The Philodendron Warscewiczii doesn’t have special requirements regarding fertilizer. You can buy any fertilizer made for tropical plants and use it.

Pro Tip: Meeting all your plants’ needs using homemade fertilizer is tricky, so buying one at the store is better.

Fertilize your philodendron during its growing seasons, spring and summer, to achieve a tall and lush plant. Don’t fertilize during winter: The plant will be dormant, and you’ll be accomplishing nothing.

Tropical plants like philodendrons prefer water-soluble fertilizers rich in organic content and nutrients. Ensure you don’t overfeed your plant since it will cause severe damage.

Dissolve the fertilizer in water and feed it to your plant in infrequent and small doses. This enables your philodendron to go through an adjustment period.

Increase the dosage after the adjustment period and feed your plant more regularly. However, avoid over-fertilizing since it can lead to fertilizer burn. Fertilizers can damage the roots and burn the plant’s leaves.

Time of Blooming

via bethbotanical

The Philodendron Warscewiczii usually blooms in the summer. If you are lucky enough, you can enjoy the plant’s special white snowflakes throughout the summer.

Be cautious of insects and pests since the flowers emit a particular smell that they love.

Propagation

You can propagate this philodendron in several ways: only find the best method. I recommend using stem cuttings for propagation rather than seeds; let’s leave that to the professionals at the nurseries.

The best time to propagate philodendrons, or any plant, is during the growing period. This is during spring when it comes to the Philodendron Warscewiczii.

Cut off a stem with three nodes and some roots using a pair of gardening shears. Take a pot with well-drained soil and place the cutting in it. Press down on the soil to make the cutting stand firm and upright.

Keeping the soil moist for the first few weeks is essential until the new plant is developed.

The Philodendron Warscewiczii tends to develop its root system quickly, so you won’t need any growth hormone. Just place it in bright indirect sunlight and avoid direct light!

Repotting

This philodendron is fast-growing, meaning you’ll have to repot it regularly throughout its lifetime.

Roots sticking out of the pot usually indicate that your Philodendron Warscewiczii needs repotting.

Ensure you repot your plant during the growing season, ideally spring, and transfer it to a larger nursery pot.

As discussed earlier, this particular philodendron plant needs well-draining soil. You should note that getting the plant out of its container can prove to be difficult, so be very careful.

Ensure your philodendron gets enough time to adapt to its new environment to realize all the benefits quickly.

Pruning

Pruning might seem tiresome work, but you won’t regret the results when executed correctly.

You can prune this plant for two reasons: to eliminate dying or dead leaves or for a mature plant to fit a designated area. Dead or dying leaves are usually brown, red, or yellow.

Additional Information About Philodendron Warscewiczii

via albos_garden

Variegated philodendrons look best when paired with other species. This plant will significantly complement your alocasia, monstera, or philodendron bipinnatifidum.

Similar to several other members of the Araceae family, the Philodendron Warscewiczii contains calcium oxalate in its leaves. Calcium oxalate is toxic to pets and humans, causing respiratory issues and skin irritation. Nonetheless, you shouldn’t face any challenges as long as you are careful.

Therefore, don’t allow a few inconveniences to deter you from owning this gorgeous plant. This is common for every plant!

Leaves

The Philodendron Warscewiczii is also called the golden leaf due to its large, segmented yellow leaves. The foliage of this plant creates an oriental temple vibe wherever they are placed. Intensify this golden hue by pairing it with a Lemon Lime philodendron.

The foliage of this plant can grow to 5-7 centimeters (2-3 inches) tall and wide, making it the perfect plant for adorning a small reading nook.

Common Pests and Diseases

The Philodendron Warscewiczii is susceptible to several diseases and pests, but these problems can be quickly solved and easily avoided.

This philodendron is attacked by common houseplant pests, including mealybugs. You should eliminate them as soon as possible since they feed on your plant and destroy it.

Use rubbing alcohol to remove them and apply an insecticide to prevent them from returning. Ensure the pesticide you use isn’t harmful to your plant.

The Philodendron Warscewiczii is also prone to pests such as aphids and spider mites, which resemble a little carnival. Still, they can cause severe damage to your plant when let alone, so be very careful! Spray a pesticide on your philodendron to get rid of them.

Diseases

One common disease when it comes to philodendrons is Erwinia Leaf Spot. This disease has translucent, water-soaked, or pale yellow marks on the Philodendron Warscewiczii’s leaves, which spread and turn red, orange, or yellow.

Erwinia Leaf Spot is a bacterial infection customarily transmitted to plants through unsterilized shears. Therefore, ensure you sterilize your gardening scissors when pruning your indoor plants to prevent this bacteria from harming your philodendron.

The disease thrives well in humid environments. Immediately isolate a plant infected with Erwinia Leaf Spot from other plants and prevent its spread by removing the infected parts.

You can also lower the temperature to about 21℃ (70℉). This will limit the development of the disease while protecting your plant.

You can spray medicines or remedies such as streptomycin once a week to combat the disease. Remember to read and follow the instructions as stated on the container.

Helpful Tricks And Tips

via baloo.jungle

The following section will highlight some valuable tricks to get the best out of your philodendron:

• The best fertilizer for the Philodendron Warscewiczii is a nitrogen-based fertilizer. It makes your plant healthier and helps it produce gorgeous leaves.

• Use a wet cloth to clean the dust off the foliage, and wipe the leaves dry afterward.

• Keep the soil moist, but ensure it doesn’t become waterlogged since it can lead to root rot.

• This plant prefers humid environments: it’s a tropical plant. Provide your plant with medium to slightly high humidity levels to achieve golden leaves to light up your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

via mi8682_thth

Now that we’ve discussed the care guide for this plant and some cool tricks, let’s look at some of the most asked questions about this plant.

How is Philodendron Warscewiczii pronounced?

The correct pronunciation for Philodendron Warscewiczii is vars-she-vich-ee-eye.

I know it looks challenging, but you’ll get the hang of it with some practice!

Is the Philodendron Warscewiczii rare?

Yes, this plant is a rare philodendron species.

You might need to look around in many places before you get your hands on this particular philodendron.

Additionally, it’s pretty expensive, making it even rarer. You’ll need to invest several hundred dollars to acquire this magnificent plant.

However, it’s safe to say that it’ll be worth every penny.

What is the rarest philodendron?

There are several rare philodendrons out there, but the rarest has to be Philodendron Spiritus Sancti.

Philodendron enthusiasts dream of adding this rare plant to their collection. However, given its rarity, the plant comes at a hefty price.

Nonetheless, philodendrons will never go wrong when uplifting your home’s decor.

Conclusion

via no_zo_mi_plant

The Philodendron Warscewiczii is a low-maintenance plant that is ideal for beginners. With all the knowledge we have disclosed about this rare philodendron, I’m confident you can easily take care of your plant.

Remember to avoid overwatering the plant. This can lead to root rot and kill your whole plant! Ensure the soil is moist and only water when the topsoil is dry.

That’s all for today. See you next time!

Africa has a diversity of flora and fauna; it’s no wonder you can find almost every parent plant.

One of these plants is the ZZ plant, also known as the Zamioculcas Zammifolia or Zanzibar Gem. 

It’s an exotic houseplant from one of the hottest regions in Africa. Due to their ability to tolerate harsh climates, these plants are easy to maintain.

This low-maintenance plant that usually fits nicely in minimalist decor will likely complement any style. 

While the ZZ plant has no special growing requirements, you must provide suitable conditions to thrive.

Soil is one of the crucial elements or factors you should check out when growing this plant. The suitable soil will affect the health and growth rate of the plant as well as its watering needs. 

In this article, we’ll analyze different soils to help you determine which best fits your ZZ plant.

What is the Best Soil for The ZZ Plant?

Several factors will impact the quality of the potting mix, such as aeration, moisture content, and nutrient content. This article will discuss what the ideal potting mix for the ZZ plant should contain. 

The pH level is another crucial factor when selecting a potting mix for the plant. 

Let’s examine some of these factors.

The pH Level

PH is one of the crucial elements when determining soil quality. This is because the pH level affects the number of compounds or nutrients that dissolve in water, transporting them to different plant parts. 

While some elements will be found in alkaline soils, others will be found in acidic environments. 

The ZZ plant will thrive in a slightly acidic to neutral environment with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. 

Components of the Soil Mix 

To get the best results, I would advise using a ready-made store-bought potting mix that often contains all the components the plant needs to develop properly. 

You can also buy a cactus or succulent mix to grow your plant.

If you want a more hands-on approach, prepare the potting mix yourself!

Here is what you need.

1. Coco Coir

Coco coir is made out of coconut.

This component is highly rot-resistant, fibrous, resilient, and porous. It is perfect for creating products exposed to water for long or outdoor plants.

Adding Coco Coir to garden soil can be excellent in amending the drainage as it’s not only organic but also increases the capacity of the water absorption and retention by the soil. Another use of this material is in propagating plants such as hydroponics and hatch seeds. 

This material is closely similar to peat moss, even though it can be argued that coco coir is the better of the two due to its sustainability.

2.  Peat Moss

Peat moss, also known as sphagnum peat moss, is an organic material from decomposed peat bogs. Like coco coir, peat moss can also be used as a growing medium for hydroponic plants and is an excellent addition to garden or potting soil.

 Here are the benefits you get by adding peat moss to your soil mix:

• Peat moss is sterile: Being sterile, this component is disease-resistant and won’t lead to nasty surprises such as pests, fungi, and other microorganisms attacking your plant.

• Improves the soil acidity: For plants that prefer acidic conditions, peat moss is the perfect addition since it’ll contribute to maintaining these acidic conditions.

• It’s versatile: Peat moss combines excellently with other components in the soil, making it a great addition.

• Improves water retention: The ability to retain water makes this material suitable for plants that prefer well-drained soils but also need a bit of moisture.

• Soil conditioner: Peat moss reduces soil compacting and makes dense soils softer, thus improving air circulation in the soil.

3. Perlite 

This is one of the most common components of improving soil aeration. Perlite is a type of amorphous volcanic glass, also known as volcanic popcorn, often confused with Styrofoam.

While this material is greatly porous and has almost zero ability to retain water, it’s highly efficient in improving aeration. 

Perlite is mainly added to growing mediums to increase aeration and can also be used to change the substructure of the soil by preventing compactness and ensuring the soil is loose.

It’s also important to note that perlite is excellent for growing new cuttings. Cuttings grown in perlite usually develop stronger roots than those propagated in water.

While this material has uses in other industries, such as pharmaceuticals, masonry construction, cement manufacturing, and soaps, its instrumentality as a growing medium can’t be ignored.

4. Horticultural Sand 

Horticultural sand is made of various materials, including quartz, crushed sandstone, or crushed granite. This material’s composition excludes lime, ensures it doesn’t impact the soil’s pH balance, and may improve it.

This sand doesn’t clamp or compact together like traditional sand since it has rougher edges. As such, it won’t fill the empty spaces in the soil. 

This is one of the reasons horticultural sand is good for improving aeration and drainage in the soil.

The main downside to this material is that it’s not easy to find quality pre-mixed horticultural sand, and even when you’re lucky, it may be pretty expensive. 

However, if you have the means, it’s a great way of improving the soil and creating an ideal environment. 

5. Pine Bark Fines

This is a soil conditioner made up of barks of trees such as pines, spruce, and firs. When these barks are crushed, they make for a good soil conditioner by increasing the pore space in the soil. 

This allows easy absorption of oxygen and nutrients in the soil and improves moisture retention.

Additionally, by amending soil with pine barks, you can reduce the formation of lumps, reducing soil compactness. 

Soil Considerations Depending on the Pot Type

Regardless of your chosen pot, it’s important to remember that a ZZ plant’s soil should always be well-drained. 

However, it’s important to note that the potting material can affect your plant’s drainage. For example, a plastic pot will likely retain more moisture than a porous pot material. 

How to choose the right pot for the plant 

The right pot for the plant could significantly impact how well the ZZ plant grows, so it’s essential to choose the correct one.

You can choose from two types of pot materials: porous and non-porous. Porous materials are fast-draining and will make a good choice for plants with overwatering issues. 

On the other hand, non-porous materials have a more remarkable ability to retain water, making them perfect for gardeners with busy schedules. 

One of the best materials for growing the ZZ plant is terracotta. This material is porous and has drainage holes at the bottom, which aid in drainage, and the pot won’t crack once the rhizomes start expanding. 

Even after getting the suitable or correct pot material, choosing the right pot size is essential to offer the plant enough room for growth. 

Every once in a while, check the pot to see if the ZZ plant has become root-bound to the pot.

If that’s the case, repot the plant to a bigger pot. We’ll explain how to do that later.

The Best Soil Recipes for ZZ Plant 

Recipe 1: Soil Mixes

• ¼ succulent soil
• ¾ organic potting soil 
• To improve the nutrient content, add a small amount of compost 

Recipe 2: Perlite and peat Moss

•  ¼ peat moss
• ½ perlite (coarse sand can also be added)
• ¼ potting soil

Recipe 3: Coco Coir 

• ½ potting soil 
• ¼ coco coir 
• ¼ coarse sand

Making the perfect potting mix

The trick to the perfect potting mix is finding and sticking to a mix that works for you. For example, if you use peat moss and perlite, don’t change later to coco coir.

When making the potting mix, ensure the ingredients are mixed in a separate container from where you’ll grow the plant. 

Add some water and potting mix to your growing pot to improve the moisture content. Place the plant’s root ball in the center and add more mixture.

Ensure you don’t apply extreme pressure on the soil after planting the ZZ plant, as it doesn’t do well in compact soils. 

Tips and Tricks for ZZ Plant Care

As previously stated, this plant doesn’t need special care and will grow fine with primary care. The ZZ plant doesn’t require frequent fertilization or watering since it’s a slow grower, and you don’t have to worry about pruning it.  

Let’s take a look at some of the primary care requirements!

Light Requirements 

These plants’ ability to tolerate various light conditions makes them one of the best plants to grow indoors, even with low light. While they can tolerate low light conditions, the plant will thrive with bright indirect light. 

Avoid exposing the plant to direct, intense sunlight as this could easily scorch the plant and cause the yellowing of leaves or even the plant to dry up. 

Watering Requirements

If you love the low light tolerance of this plant, you’ll be more mesmerized by its ability to go a long time without water. Since it has adapted to a dry climate, the ZZ plant can last weeks without watering, which won’t impact it.

Always ensure the topsoil is completely dry before watering the plant. The regular watering routine for the plant should be once every three weeks. 

It’s crucial to ensure you don’t overwater the plant, as this will likely lead to root rot and the development of other fungal diseases that could harm your plant. 

Root rot in the ZZ plant

When the plant has soggy soil, it creates the perfect environment for fungus to develop, and this, in turn, causes root rot. Once this disease has affected the plant, reducing watering won’t be enough to save the plant.

Remove any affected roots using a sterilized clipper or shears to completely cure the plant. Otherwise, the condition will reoccur once you water your plant.

Take the plant out of the pot by tilting it to the side and carefully sliding it out. Remove the soil covering the roots slowly to see all the affected roots.

Remove any dark or mushy roots from the plant by cutting them out with a sterilized tool. 

Repotting the ZZ Plant

Repotting should be done once the plant has outgrown its current pot. This is usually exhibited by the roots sticking out of the drainage holes, indicating the plant has become root-bound. As such, you have to transfer it to a bigger pot.

By doing this, you ensure the plant’s roots have enough space to expand and the plant can grow. 

Here are the steps you should take when repotting the ZZ plant:

• Repotting should be done at the beginning of the growing season, usually in spring.

• First, remove the ZZ plant from its old pot by flipping it to the side and sliding it out.

• Remove the soil from the plant and place it in a new and bigger pot. Ensure you use fresh soil mix when planting since the old soil mix could be infected with fungus. 

• Gently press down the soil around the plant.

• Now, water your repotted plant and let the water drain.

• Ensure you keep the ZZ plant from direct sunlight as it can cause leaf burn and change color.

Temperature and Humidity Requirements 

The ZZ plant will thrive when the temperatures are between 60 – 70℉. For people living in areas where the temperature drops below 40℉, it’s better to grow your plant indoors as this plant isn’t frost tolerant.

You don’t need to worry about humidity. This plant will tolerate the average household humidity levels of around 40%. If it gets really dry, use a humidifier to keep your plant glowing!

Propagation of the ZZ Plant 

This plant is pretty easy to propagate. While there are several methods you can use, most gardeners prefer propagating by division. You get the plant’s rhizomes and nurture them in another pot to get a whole new plant.

You can also use stem and leaf cuttings.

Propagating using stem cuttings

You’ll need a sterilized knife, a nursery pot with drainage holes, and fresh potting soil to propagate through this method.

Use the knife to cut at the base of a healthy ZZ stem.

Place the cuttings you make in a glass container with water. Ensure you change the water every 2-3 days to prevent infection and growth of mold, which could lead to rotting. 

Now, place the container where it can get plenty of indirect sunlight.

Once you see root formation on the cuttings, you can plant them in the nursery and later repot them as new plants. 

Propagation by leaf cuttings 

This process is longer as compared to rhizome division or using stem cuttings. Still, it has the advantage of a high success rate. It also may be worth the wait.

Here is how to go about it:

• Cut some leaves near the plant’s stalk with a small part of the stem. 

• Get a fresh potting mix and bury the cuttings around an inch deep. Ensure you use several cuttings to increase the success rate of propagation.

• Water the cuttings after propagating and let the soil dry, then water again.

• Remember, the ZZ plant is a slow grower. As such, the growth may not be visible for at least three months after you have propagated.

Fertilizer Requirements 

Fertilization should be done twice during the growing season since the plant is a slow grower and won’t need a lot of feeding.

You can use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 to ensure the plant is replenished with all the nutrients it needs. 

When fertilizing, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, usually displayed on the original packaging of the fertilizer.

Avoiding frequent fertilization is vital since it can cause overfertilization and burn the plant’s roots. 

Commonly Asked Questions 

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know to choose the suitable soil for your ZZ plant, let’s look at some common concerns people have about this plant.

1. What kind of soil does the Raven ZZ need?

Every variety of this plant can grow in a similar potting soil. The best soil to use for the plant is a well-draining one. Choosing a well-drained soil for the plant is essential as it’s easily watered. As such, it’s easy to overwater it.

2. Does the ZZ plant need unique soil?

No, this plant doesn’t need any special soil. The Raven ZZ plant is adaptable to different soils as long as they’re well-drained. You also won’t have to worry about adding nutrients to the soil as the plant will survive in soil that’s not nutrient-rich.

The most important thing about the soil is drainage, which can be improved by adding components such as peat moss, coco coir, and perlite to improve aeration.

3. Can I use succulent soil for a ZZ plant?

Yes, cactus or succulent soil is a suitable substrate for the plant as it has excellent drainage. 

If you want even better drainage, you can add a couple of components to the soil, such as horticultural sand, perlite, and coco coir.

Summing Up 

The Raven ZZ plant is low-maintenance and will only need porous, well-drained soil. Whether you use store-bought potting soil, cactus, succulent mix, or make your own potting soil, always ensure the soil you have is well-draining. 

Since the plant lacks specialized care, you’ll need to provide it with the basics to meet its needs.

The ZZ plant isn’t only great to look at; its versatility will leave you desiring one. Not only do they need less watering and fertilization, but they can also survive in different low-light areas, making them perfect for indoors. 

To ensure the plant thrives, provide it with all its basic care requirements and place it in a place with indirect light. 

Remember, for this plant, it’s the little things that count!

If one plant stands out from other garden and indoor plants, it’s Begonia maculata or the polka dot begonia.

With its angel wings-shaped leaves with silver dots and red undersides, the begonia maculata tops the list of the most stylish plant leaves.

The uniqueness of this plant has many people wondering if it’s possible to propagate. Luckily, propagation of the Begonia maculata is possible, and you are about to learn how.

Let’s take a look at how you can propagate this plant!

When To Propagate Begonia Maculata

It’s not enough to know how to propagate this beautiful plant; it’s also important to understand the right propagation time.

Before beginning the propagation procedures, you should know when it’s the right time to start and what to expect. 

There are four propagation methods for begonia maculata wightii: stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, division, and from seeds. 

If you choose the seed propagation method, ensure the seeds are sown in early spring. 

Propagation by other methods, such as leaf and stem cuttings, can be done at any time, but to increase the chances of success, the best time to propagate is during the early spring or summer.

This plant is also likely to wither and die when exposed to harsh weather when the first frost arrives. To prevent this, ensure you imitate the tropical environment indoors where the plant is placed. 

How To Propagate Begonia Maculata

Propagating this plant through either of the four methods is easy and with a high success rate, which is good news for growers.

Here is the process of growing new polka dots begonia plants. Be sure to take every step!

By Leaf Cuttings

There are seven steps in propagating this plant by leaf cuttings. 

1. Look for a few fresh leaves from your begonia maculata and cut them off.
2. If you want to propagate several new polka dot begonias, turn the leaves upside down and divide them using a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors. Sterilization can be done with 70% isopropyl alcohol or bleach. Ensure whichever tool you choose is sterilized. 

If you plan to propagate only a few of these plants, you do not need to divide the leaves. You simply have to cut the leaves from the mother plant and ensure that each leaf you choose for propagation has a petiole.

3. Now the next step is to make a nursery for the cuttings. In a small pot, add some well-draining potting mix. This mix can consist of vermiculite, perlite, or peat moss.
4. Next, insert the leaf cutting petiole stalks into the soil. To accelerate the rooting process, wrap the nursery pot with a transparent plastic bag and place it where it can receive bright indirect light. Ensure the pot is not exposed to direct sunlight, which may cause propagation failure. 
5. Ensure the soil in the nursery is always moist but don’t overwater it, as this could cause root rot.
6. Root formation will begin after three to five weeks, and you’ll have your new begonia maculata.
7. Wait for about six weeks after the roots have sprouted, and your begonia maculata will be ready for transplanting. 

Propagation by Stem Cuttings

This plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Before beginning the propagation process, it’s important to know how to make stem cuttings. Propagation can be done either by water or soil.

Use a pair of clean, sterilized scissors to make a cutting from the plant. If you have been trimming the plant, use one of the cuttings you chopped off. Ensure the cutting you make has at least one node attached; the more nodes, the better. The cutting should also have at least one leaf. 

You should cut right below the node in most indoor plants, but this isn’t the case for the begonia polka dot plant. New roots are likely to cluster on the nodes. In other cases, they’ll grow all over the stem.

Next, it’s time to decide which propagation method you’ll use: soil or water.

Propagating in Soil.

Here is how to do it:

1. Fill a container with a suitable potting mix (may include peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite).
2. Cut some healthy stems from the begonia polka dot plant and divide them into the number of plants you want to propagate. Each cutting should have a node.
3. Spray some water on the potting mix to moisten it.
4. Now plant the cutting in the soil and place the nursery pot in a warm place with plenty of indirect sunlight. It’ll take a couple of weeks for the roots to develop. Ensure the soil is moist at this time and not wet. If you are unsure about the indirect light, you can grow the plant indoors with grow lights.
5. To ensure the right humidity levels, use a humidifier or cover the nursery with a plastic bag. If you decide to cover it, remove the cover twice a week to allow air circulation.
6. After a couple of weeks, check the cuttings to see if there is a new root formation. Do this by gently tugging on the stems. Resistance will indicate there has been a formation of roots. 
7. Once the roots have developed, continue with normal care until it’s time to transplant the new plants.

@amazingplants

Propagating in Water

Get a large enough container and fill it halfway with water. Now lay the cuttings in until the bottom third of the cuttings are covered by water.

Submerging more of the cutting in water will increase the risk of the cuttings rotting. It’s also important to ensure the leaves are not in contact with the water, increasing the risk of rotting. 

A clear container is the best option when propagating by water as it enables you to clearly see the cuttings’ progress. 

Place the container in a bright shady area with indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight will cause damage to the cuttings, and this may prevent proper propagation. You can use a light monitor to determine whether the cuttings receive sufficient sunlight. 

Grow lights can also be used to improve the growth rate. Another way to encourage root formation is by using a rooting hormone.

Another important step when propagating the cuttings by water is refreshing the water after every two or three days. Standing water is toxic to the cuttings, and refreshing removes harmful bacteria and prevents it from standing. Letting the water stay for too long will cause it to have a bad odor which is a bad sign.

The begonia maculata wightii roots easily, so it shouldn’t take long before you start noticing new roots on the cuttings.

You should note that root formation will depend on many factors, so some cuttings may grow faster than others. However, compared to other indoor plants that take months to root, the polka dot begonia has a faster root formation rate.

Propagation using Polka Dot Begonia Seeds

While growing this plant from the seeds is possible, it can be tiring and time-consuming.

It’s also important to note that the resulting plants from seed propagation may not be the exact replicas of the plant if the parent plants were hybrids. 

This is because the hybrids of these plants are from several plant varieties. In some cases, seeds may even fail to germinate if the hybrid is sterile.

During seed collection, clip the branches or stems that are done blooming. Cutting stems with no blooms may be futile since they don’t have seeds. Once the flowers dry, you can save some begonia maculata seeds.

By Division 

Propagating by division is easy. Here are the steps you should follow.

1. Remove the plant from the container or the pot it’s growing. Do this by slowly wriggling the plant out of the container so you don’t tear the delicate leaves. 
2. To propagate the plant by division method, you first need to separate the offshoots or stems. Separating the begonia polka dot stems from each other is easy compared to other plants. 
3. Now pull the different parts of the begonia polka dot apart. It can sometimes be challenging, and you may need to untangle the odd roots. Use specialized tools like shears to untangle or separate the plant, as tugging them apart can easily destroy it. 
4. Next, examine the roots of the plant. Suppose you notice some discolored or mushy roots on the separated plants. In that case, you may have to discard these and separate them from healthy plants, as the condition could be contagious. 
5. Return the mother plant back to its original container.
6. Place the divided or the now new baby begonia maculata on new pots. Ensure you don’t reuse old pots of the plant or other plants, as this could be contagious and cause damage to the new plants.
7. Use the normal care guide for the begonia polka dot plant.

Reasons To Propagate Begonia Maculata 

People wonder why propagation is important or what they’ll gain from it.

The truth is most houseplants can be really expensive, especially unique ones like the begonia polka dot. With this in mind, it’s more economical to propagate the plant if you already have one, and who knows, maybe you may make some money from it too!

Propagating houseplants is cheap, fun, and exciting to get new plants. 

Additionally, propagation can also save your plants. Suppose your plants have started dying due to factors such as underwatering or overwatering, mistreatment, or overfertilization, then extracting the healthy stems and propagating them as new plants may be an effective way to save the plants.

Under the right conditions, the plant will quickly grow in the new pot. You should trim the plant occasionally to control its growth. Propagating the stems you trim will prevent the plant from going to waste. 

Common Mistakes When Propagating 

Man is to err, and we all make mistakes occasionally, especially if you are an avid gardener or even beginners for that case.

Finding out that the propagation did not go as planned can be disheartening, but we have prepared a list of common mistakes to avoid for the multiplication to be successful. 

Placing the Cuttings in Water for too Long

With the knowledge of the propagation of this plant through stem cuttings in water, it’s also important to understand what mistakes to avoid when using this method.

 As mentioned earlier, changing the water frequently is important to minimize the risk of bacteria formation and the cuts rotting. 

The good thing is if the cuttings start to rot, you’ll notice this in just a few days. This will be exhibited by soft and mushy cuttings. Once you notice this, select cuttings with a healthy node since they can recover and discard the rest.

Direct Light 

Another crucial factor to remember is avoiding direct light. Cuttings should always be placed where they can get plenty of indirect sunlight. When exposed to direct light, the leaves will turn yellow, even when it is just for a short period. 

The trick is to ensure the nursery is not exposed to direct or low light. To get indirect light, you can shade a place with direct light with translucent material.

Patience 

Any seasoned gardener knows that patience is key when growing plants. Even though the begonia maculata will form roots in about a week, remember that even if the roots fail to form within this period, it’s not a cause for alarm. 

Root formation may get delayed, but just to be sure, check if the nursery and cuttings are under optimal conditions. 

If you check out all the factors like light, potting mix, water/moisture, humidity, and temperature, add a little patience to it. It will be worth it!

Begonia Maculata Care Guide

Just as they are easy to grow, polka dot begonias are easy to care for. Don’t get me wrong. These plants shouldn’t be completely ignored, but caring for them is a walk in the park compared to other plants.

Here are some important care tips!

Light Requirements

Many philodendrons will thrive in partially shaded areas or indirect light.

The begonia maculata prefers a little more shade than other tropical plants. If you want to see this plant thrive, place it in a place with filtered light.

There are two tools you can use to ensure your plant gets the best light. Use a light meter to monitor the light the plant is receiving and a grow light to illuminate the plant. 

When using a grow light, don’t place it too near the plant, as this could have adverse impacts. 

In the summer, you can take the plant out but place it in a place with indirect sunlight. 

If you notice any signs that the plant may be getting scorched or burned by the sunlight, move it to a less sunny area, or if you are using grow lights, move them further away. 

Humidity Requirements 

This plant is native to Brazil, which is one of the tropical areas. As such, this plant prefers humidity levels of at least 50%.

The best place to keep the plant to get these humidity levels is in a well-lit bathroom since the humidity is high in such wet rooms. 

You can also place the plant in your favorite room and use a humidifier to adjust the humidity levels. Alternatively, you can place a saucer of water near the plant such that the water evaporates and creates humidity for the plant.

If you use a water tray, ensure the plant isn’t submerged. Roots may become damp when the plant is in contact with water, leading to fungal diseases.

Automated methods, such as using a humidifier, are an excellent and efficient way of ensuring your plants have the right humidity.

@rrrosiki

Temperature Requirements 

The polka dot begonia will do well in areas with temperatures between 67 and 70℉.

As for people in cold climates, you may have to give up on this one as the plant won’t survive in cold areas; it’s a tropical plant.

Ensure the soil temperature doesn’t drop below 60℉, which may damage the plant.

Soil

The begonia will do well in well-draining soil, so it’s important to increase the aeration of compact soil by using sand or planting it in loamy soil. 

This plant is susceptible to root rot, so add some pebbles or broken terracotta pots at the bottom before adding the substrate to encourage draining.

Watering

Underwatering and overwatering are two key issues that may adversely affect this plant, so balancing when watering is key.

Ensure the soil doesn’t completely dry out between waterings. Conversely, avoid overwatering the plant as it may cause root rot and permanent damage to the plant. 

Check the soil for moisture before watering the plant. Simply place your finger in the soil and check the first few inches for moisture.

If you still can’t confirm the plant needs watering, wait until the leaves of the begonia maculata start wilting rather than watering it and risking overwatering.

You can apply top watering to the plant, but the leaves should always be kept dry

Fertilizing

Fertilizing schedule for this plant is pretty simple. You just have to fertilize it twice a month during the growing season (spring and summer). During the dormant seasons (fall and winter), fertilize it once every two months.

Use a balanced fertilizer such as triple 14 or triple 17 to ensure the plant gets all round nutrients. 

The fertilizer should be diluted to half strength to avoid burning the roots and overfertilization.

Repotting

This polka dot begonia is a fast grower. This means the plant will need to be repotted often, at least once a year, during the first growth years.

Since the plant thrives when it’s root bound, using smaller pots is important.

If not repotted, the plant may have stunted growth. Therefore, always repot the plant to give it a chance to thrive.

Repotting should always be done at the beginning of the growing season. When repotting, ensure it’s done on a larger pot and with fresh soil to minimize the risk of contamination. 

Pruning

For many growers, pruning isn’t a critical part of the plant’s care guide, but in my experience, it’s crucial in helping your plant thrive and grow healthy.

There are several reasons to prune. For one, as the plant grows tall, it may get leggy. Therefore, pruning could help revive it. Secondly, it’s important to remove diseased, dead, or discolored leaves that may be on the plant. This will also improve the plant’s health. 

Here are three methods you can use to prune your begonia:

1. Cut the plant down to its base to promote fresh new growth of the entire plant.
2. Prune the branches to help the polka dot begonia maintain its shape.
3. Remove only spent flowers and dead leaves from the plant.

Just like repotting, pruning should be done during the growing period as this will boost the plant’s growth. 

Cleaning

While I previously mentioned that it’s best to apply top watering to the plant, this doesn’t mean the leaves should absolutely come to no contact with water. Cleaning the leaves is important.

Find a soft sponge and dip it in water, then use it to gently clean the leaves of the maculata. Alternatively, you can use a spray bottle filled with water. 

After cleaning, use a soft cloth to dry out the excess water on the leaves, as letting it linger may cause the leaves to rot.

Common Issues With The Begonia Maculata

While this plant is pretty easy to grow, it’s not resistant to pests and diseases. Even though it’s not common, this plant can be attacked.

Here we have prepared solutions to some common issues with the plant.

Pests

Several pests, such as whiteflies and mealybugs, may attack the polka dot begonia. Fortunately, it’s quite easy to get rid of them.

To ensure these pests don’t take down your plant, you must inspect it regularly. Signs such as brown lesions could indicate whiteflies and mealybugs have attacked the plant. Use some dish soap and neem oil to remove the pests.

Powdery Mildew 

The primary reason for powdery mildew in plants is wet leaves. If the condition is left untreated for too long, it could cause severe damage. 

To minimize the risk of your plants getting powdery mildew, apply bottom watering and ensure leaves don’t come into contact with water once watered.

Too Tall and Leggy Stems 

When your polka dot begonia is left in a low-light place, it can grow tall and leggy.

If you notice this, check the light conditions and ensure the plant receives plenty of indirect sunlight.

Brown and Crispy Leaf Edges

This is one of the primary signs of underwatering. The plant will have crispy leaf tips and edges.

When you notice these signs, check if the soil is dry, remove any affected leaves, then water the plant.

Yellow Leaves

Once again, watering is the culprit, in this case, overwatering. Having excess water clogs the air space in the soil. This prevents air circulation and, as such, prevents them from growing healthy.

Additionally, the lack of water prevents nutrients from getting to the leaves, so they turn yellow.

If you notice the plant is soggy, delay the watering for a while and let the soil dry. If the soil isn’t soggy, check if the plant has enough moisture.

You mustn’t leave your begonia exposed to direct sunlight with the hope of drying out the soggy soil, as this could have a counter effect and cause more damage.

However, if the plants have already been attacked, you should use a fungicide to treat them. 

Root Rot

One of the main consequences of overwatering is root rot. Once the soil is soggy, it’s likely to attract pathogens such as fungi. This will be exhibited by mushy discolored roots. 

Remove the affected roots and repot the plant in well-draining soil if you notice this.

Toxicity 

Unfortunately, yes, this plant is toxic. The presence of calcium oxalate in the begonia leaves causes this toxicity. When ingested, these harmful crystals can cause health issues. 

Keep the plant away from pests and children to reduce the risk of poisoning.

Wrapping Up 

If you don’t propagate this plant for its unique look, you have to propagate it for its fascinating polka dot leaves, olive-green leaves, and snow-white flowers!

Ensure you follow the correct care guide for the plant if you want your polka dot begonias to thrive.

Growing the begonia maculata is one of the easiest things you can do. Besides being easy to propagate, this plant can also be easy to care for, and it’ll surely arouse interest among your guests.

Research by NASA proves that indoor houseplants are beautiful and beneficial to human health. Some indoor plants are very effective in air purification and reducing formaldehyde, benzene, mold and bacteria.

Want to know which are the best plants that purify the air? Today we focus on 10 of the Most Beautiful Trees To Grow Indoor that will purify the air.

1. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea Elegans)

Parlour palm is at the top of NASA’s research for indoor plants that purify air. This small tree can remove benzene, carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.

In addition to the health benefits, this plant is a gorgeous exotic representative that will add holiday flair to your space.

It is also easy to care for as long as you water the plant frequently.

2. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)

Dieffenbachia, or Dumb Cane, is another good-looking plant that acts as an air purifier. A study proves its function as an absorber of CO2 and toxins such as benzene, toluene and xylene known to cause weakness and even insomnia, as well as cigarette smoke, radon, and solvents.

The best soil for this plant is a light and well-drained potting mix. Place it somewhere with bright, indirect light to let it thrive.

3. Weeping Fig (Ficus Benjamina)

Ficus benjamina is a pretentious plant but your care for it will be rewarded with stunning look and health benefits. Weeping fig is known as a great air purifier and air freshener.

Keep the plant moist with regular watering. The potting mix should be with good drainage. The best location is a warm and shaded place.

4. Yucca

Yuca plant is among the most favorite indoor houseplants because of its low-maintenance requirements. It can tolerate any conditions, even drought. And as a bonus, the Yuca tree is also an air purifier. It increases the oxygen levels inside and eliminates the toxins and CO2.

5. Calamondin Orange Tree

The Calamondin tree is a lovely citrus tree that will add a cheerful color and an ornamental touch to your interior. It is known for its fragrant white flowers and glossy green foliage.

Like most plants, it purifies air from the CO2. Another benefit you can take advantage of this plant is that it will freshen the air with its fragrance during the blooming phase.

6. Umbrella Tree (Schefflera Arboricola)

Schefflera tree is a low-maintenance and stunning small tree that can add an ornamental touch to an empty indoor corner. Its leaves are glossy

The health benefits of growing a Schefflera indoors include purifying the air from benzene, formaldehyde and toluene. It also cleans the air from cigarette smoke.

7. Fiddle Leaf Fig

The broad leaves of the Fiddle leaf fig make it one of the best air purifiers in our collection. To help the tree do its job, keep the leaves clean. If they are dirty, they won’t be able to clear the toxins in the air.

It is also very important to keep the soil uncovered and make sure it is well-drained. That will ensure that the plant roots pull in the toxins.

Another advantage of having a Fiddle leaf fig is that it controls the humidity in the room. Place the plant in a room with bright filtered light, let it dry out a little between waterings and clean regularly its leaves from dust.

8. Rubber Plant

Rubber trees are the best at oxygen production! In addition to that, they also eliminate the toxins from the air. Fighting off mold and bacteria is part of the plant’s defense mechanism to protect its soil.

Their dark green leaves absorb the toxins while cleaning the indoor air. The Rubber plant is one of the most common house plants because of its low-maintenance nature and impressive look. The best place for this plant is a partial shade with little indirect light.

9. Jade Plant

Unlike other plants, the Jade plant absorbs carbon dioxide at night and produces oxygen. This makes it suitable for exposure in bedrooms.

Recent research also claims that the Jade plant is the best at removing toluene and acetone, guilty for the so-called sick building syndrome. If you suffer from it, you will feel reduced productivity, dizziness, asthma or allergies.

This plant does not require much care. Keep it in a bright place with indirect sunlight and water frequently during the warm part of the year.

10. Guiana Chestnut (Pachira Aquatica)

The ornamental look of Guiana Chestnut makes it a common indoor plant in homes and offices. The striking visual look of this plant is backed up by plenty of health benefits.

The Guiana Chestnut is at the top place for air purification. It also does excellent in clearing the air from toxins. It absorbs formaldehyde and benzene through its long and broad leaves. an excellent air purifier, helping to remove toxins and improve the air quality in your home or office.

Its stunning look doesn’t respond to its care requirements. This plant is a low-maintenance variety that prefers moist and well-drained soil.

Philodendrons are always a delight to add to any household. These low-maintenance houseplants are known for their beautiful foliage, which embellishes any place they are placed in.

Philodendron White Wizard and Philodendron White Knight are two of the most popular philodendron varieties. Their unique variegation patterns have made them popular among plant enthusiasts.

Let’s take a look at the general information regarding these plants:

Philodendron White Knight vs. White Wizard

via gennasplants

Philodendron White Knight and White Wizard are closely related plants. Still, each has unique characteristics and features that set them apart. Some things that can help you distinguish them are their size and growth rate, the color of their foliage and stems, and the size of their leaves.

In this section, we’ll discuss the key differences between these plants to better understand how to distinguish them.

1. Foliage

The most notable features of these remarkable plants are their striking variegations.

However, more than the leaves’ color may be needed to discern these two plants. That’s why other attributes, such as the size and shape of the leaves, are essential to note when buying these plants.

The White Knight has small, oval-shaped leaves. On the other hand, the philodendron White Wizard has large, round-shaped leaves, which can grow up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide.

The size isn’t that significant since both plants are known to be medium size.

2. Color

The most exciting thing about these philodendrons is their color.

Each plant has a unique color of its stem and different variegations of leaves. They are, however, always white and have color in common.

Stems

The White Knight has dark purplish-brown stems with white-edged cataphylls. The White Wizard, on the other hand, has a solid green stem that’s often hemmed or streaked with white lines.

This noticeable difference in the stem color of the two philodendrons makes it simple to tell the two apart.

Leaves

Differentiating these two philodendrons based on the color of their leaves can be pretty tricky.

For example, the White Knight has numerous variegations. There are plants with great white patches complementing the prominent green color. Others have verdigris leaves adorned by splashes of white only. You can also find plants with only white or green leaves.

Conversely, the philodendron White Wizard is characterized by dark green leaves with white patches.

3. Growth Rate and Size

The growth rate and size of these tropical houseplants are vital aspects you must consider before buying one.

The philodendron White Knight is fast-growing and can reach a height of 3 meters (9.9 ft) tall.

On the other hand, the philodendron White Wizard is slow-growing and reaches a height of 6-90 centimeters (2-3 ft) tall. Even though it might take a while before it reaches maturity, it will be worth the wait!

These tropical plants are ideal indoor houseplants, and all you need to do is find a suitable place with enough space, and they’ll take care of the rest.

White Wizard vs. White Knight: Similarities

via herplantstories

The philodendron White Knight and the philodendron White Wizard have numerous similarities. This includes their care requirements, type and history, and the pests and diseases that attack them.

This section will cover these similarities to further your knowledge of differentiating between these two plants.

History

Both of these philodendron cultivars belong to the family Araceae and the genus Philodendron. Even though their history remains unclear, these two variegated philodendrons are native to South America.

The presence of white variegations is mainly attributed to the lack of chlorophyll. According to scientists, there are three ways to discern these variegation types:

1. Viral mutations: This is the discoloration of philodendron foliage due to a viral infection.
2. Chimeric mutation: This variegation type is caused by a random mutation. Philodendrons possess two kinds of tissue, one with a mutation and another without.
3. Genetics: This is the inheritance of variegations from a mother plant.

Type

The philodendron White Wizard and philodendron White Knight are perennial plants, meaning they can last a couple of years with proper care.

These tropical plants are also climbers, so you should stake them for them to reach their full potential.

Growth And Care Requirements

The good news about these two philodendron cultivars is that they pretty much have similar care requirements. All you need to do is provide them with sufficient lighting, a proper aroid mix, and be careful with their watering. You’ll have glorious plants in your house!

Below is a care guide we have developed to help you take care of these philodendron species and reap their benefits.

Light Requirements

The White Wizard needs bright indirect light to flourish. We recommend placing it near a south-facing window for best results.

However, ensure your philodendron doesn’t come into contact with direct sun rays, so don’t place it on a windowsill. This plant has delicate foliage that will easily be scorched by direct sunlight, something you want to avoid at all costs.

The philodendron White Knight prefers indirect sunlight and medium light conditions. This cultivar’s leaves are also susceptible to sunburn, so avoid direct sunlight. The plant also thrives in low-light conditions. Still, it will need indirect lighting for better coloration.

One way of knowing whether your philodendron receives excess light is the yellowing of leaves. Once you notice this, start controlling the amount of light the philodendrons receive. 

You can invest in some grow lights to help you control the light they receive.

Water

via plant.dojo

Although these cultivars are tropical plants, they don’t require frequent watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can destroy your whole plant. So if you’re unsure whether your philodendron requires water, just leave it as it is.

To know if your philodendron needs watering, check the top 5 centimeters (2 in) of the soil. If it’s completely dry, you should water your plant.

You should water your philodendron thoroughly and allow the excess water to drain through the potholes.

Underwatering is also a severe concern for your philodendron. One sign of an underwatered plant is drooping leaves, so you know what to do if you see this.

Humidity

The humidity preferences of the philodendrons White Knight and White Wizard are almost identical. Both prefer high humidity levels, with humidity above 50% ideal.

There are several ways you can increase the humidity levels in your home to best suit your philodendrons. One way is through the pebble tray method. We recommend this method since it’s relatively simple and doesn’t lead to fungal infections.

Another way to raise humidity levels is through misting. Allow your plants to dry before you respray them to prevent fungal diseases.

If these methods seem a little bit too much to do, you can always invest in a good humidifier. This will create the ideal humid conditions for your plants while saving time and effort.

Climate and Temperature

The philodendrons White Knight and White Wizard love tropical climates with mild temperatures and high humidity. They thrive in room temperatures between 18-26℃ (65-80℉).

They are relatively hardy plants and can tolerate temperatures between 12 and 37°C (55-100℉). However, such temperatures limit their growth. Exposing the plants to extreme heat can kill them, while extreme frost completely halts the plant’s development.

For the best results, place your philodendrons at room temperature and keep them where they won’t be subjected to sudden temperature draughts and swings.

Soil 

Philodendrons thrive in an aroid potting mix; these two are no exception. An aroid potting mi provides proper aeration and drainage and ensures your plant gets all the organic content and nutrients it needs.

The good thing about an aroid soil mix is that you can make it yourself. Take some orchid bark and perlite and add to your standard potting mix. This will make the soil well-draining and improve the aeration of the roots.

To improve water retention, incorporate some peat moss. Peat moss will retain moisture and provide it to your plant when needed.

Fertilization

via plantastic_suna

Regular fertilization is crucial for philodendrons, especially during their growing season. One thing you should avoid, however, is overfertilization!

Overfertilization can be avoided by using the correct fertilizer. The philodendrons White Knight and White Wizard prefer liquid fertilizer since it provides all the essential nutrients. Ensure you dilute your fertilizer in water according to the package specifications.

An excellent example of a liquid fertilizer is the Triple 19 fertilizer. The fertilizer will ensure the soil has the required nutrients and won’t lead to fertilizer burn.

Pruning and Cleaning

Similar to all other species in the philodendron genus, these two plants will need regular pruning and cleaning. One thing is assured, though, they’ll be an excellent addition to your indoor jungle!

Ensure you use sterilized gardening shears when pruning your plants. This prevents bacteria transfer which can harm your plant.

Regular pruning is a great way to boost plant growth and promote healthy development. Cut off any old leaves from your plant and, for best results, ensure you begin from the bottom as you go up!

Pruning will also help you achieve an ideal height for your White Knight; it doesn’t have to take up too much space!

Remove any infected leaves to prevent the spread of diseases.

Cleaning is also of much importance as pruning. Use a wet cloth to wipe off the dust and dry the leaves afterward to prevent fungal infections.

Repotting

It would be best to repot these philodendrons at least once a year. This enables them to have adequate space for their root system development and new nutrient-rich soil, which promotes a faster growth rate.

Ensure you use a well-draining medium to avoid any instances of root rot occurring.

As they grow, the ideal time to repot these philodendrons is during spring. This gives them enough time to familiarize themselves with their new environment before entering dormancy in winter.

Propagation 

via only.my.plants

The easiest propagation method for philodendrons White Knight and White Wizard is through stem cuttings.

Cut off a cutting roughly 20 centimeters (8 in) long and put in a well-draining substrate rich in nutrients and organic material. Please place it in indirect sunlight and tend to its watering requirements.

You should begin seeing some root growth after a month and a half.

Common Issues

There are a few problems you could face if you own either of these philodendrons. Some of these problems include certain diseases and pest infestation.

Luckily, with some care, you can rescue your philodendrons.

Pests

Philodendron White Wizard and White Knight are susceptible to aphids and mealybugs. Handpick the pests if the infestation is new and on a microscale, and observe your plant for a few days for their return.

If you’re facing a more severe infestation, however, you can employ other alternative methods. You can spray your plant with high-pressure water, which can damage weak plants, so be very careful. You can also cut off the branch heavily infested by these bugs.

Another method of eliminating mealybugs and aphids is using diluted alcohol. It’s important to note that alcohol can harm your plant, so ensure it doesn’t touch your philodendron. 

If all these natural methods fail to alleviate your problem, you can always use insecticidal soap!

Diseases

The philodendron White Wizard, White Knight, White Princess, and Pink Princess are prone to similar diseases.

One of the most common diseases that affect them is bacterial leaf spot. Using fungicides usually doesn’t solve this problem, so treating the disease early is paramount. To stop the infection from spreading, you need to quarantine the infected plant and cut off all infected leaves.

Another disease that philodendrons are susceptible to is root rot. Root rot is a fungal infection that’s caused by overwatering. There are several signs that may indicate root rot in your plant, including stunted growth, distorted, withering, and drooping leaves, alongside yellowing of leaves.

Root rot can quickly kill your plant, but there’s still hope if you notice these signs early enough. Take your plant out of its growing container and remove all infected roots. Infected roots usually are spongy in texture and brown or black.

Discard the decaying roots and rinse the healthy ones with water. Finally, repot your plant in a new pot with a well-draining substrate.

White Knight And White Wizard: How To Choose

via rooted_lab

Honestly, we can’t find the superior plant between these two philodendrons; both of them are just so amazing!

They have uniquely-colored foliage that brightens any space they are put in, and they are also low-maintenance, which is the icing on the cake.

Features to Help You Choose

The only drawbacks of these two tropical plants are that they aren’t pet-friendly and are toxic.

Their foliage contains calcium oxalate, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and burn airways if consumed. Calcium oxalate can also cause eye and skin irritation, so ensure you wear protective gloves when propagating or pruning these plants.

However, if you manage to keep them out of pets’ reach, you’ll have fantastic houseplants you won’t regret.

The only feature of these two plants that can help you choose is their size. The White Knight is much bigger than the White Wizard, and you’ll have to decide which one best suits your preferences. If you have limited space or prefer smaller plants, the White Wizard is probably the best option.

If you want to make a statement with your houseplant and give your home that royal feel, then the White Knight is the perfect option.

Frequently Asked Questions

via nico_plants_

This section will cover some of the most common questions regarding the philodendron White Knight and White Wizard.

Is the philodendron White Knight rare?

Yes. This tropical plant is quite rare, and you’ll have to go through several avenues before you get your hands on one.

Both the White Wizard and White Knight are rare plants and also expensive. The stem cutting for either plant costs around $250, and a mature plant costs about $1000.

Does the White Wizard have stable variegation?

The stability of variegations in the White Wizard will depend on the type of variegation. For instance, variegations as a result of inheritance from mother plants or viral mutations are stable.

However, as discussed earlier, chimeric mutation involves two types of plant tissue: non-mutated and mutated. Suppose you multiply the stem with white leaves. In that case, you’ll have a variegated philodendron. However, your new philodendron won’t be variegated if you propagate the stem with green foliage.

Is the White Knight a good plant?

Predominantly, the White Wizard and the White Knight are good plants since they are low-maintenance. With only a little effort, you can transform your living room into a beautiful, lush green jungle.

The fast-growing plant reaches considerably high heights and is perfect if you adore illustrious and grand settings.

Final Remarks

via poonsingarden

Having compared the philodendron White Knight and White Wizard, it’s pretty evident that these plants possess unique characteristics and features that make them ideal houseplants.

They have relatively the same care guide, so you won’t have a headache deciding which is the best for you.

The most significant differences are in the color and size of the plants. The philodendron White Wizard is the perfect option if you prefer smaller plants that won’t take up too much of your space. However, if you don’t mind having a massive plant in your home, you should probably go for the White Knight.

Whichever philodendron you choose, we’re sure it’ll take your decor game to the next level and be a perfect addition to your other houseplants.

Have a wonderful day!

It is good to know how to propagate indoor plants. This way you will enrich your collection of plants, multiply those that you like most and save money from buying plants.

With this collection of 30 indoor plants that can grow from cuttings, you will learn basic but important rules for gardening and propagation of indoor plants.

1. Tradescantia

Tradescantia is a lovely low-maintenance plant that features striped small spike-shaped leaves. Variegation varies from white to purple.

This plant can be easily propagated and grown both in water and in soil. Simply cut off a branch from a matured plant and dip it in water for 2-3 weeks which is enough for the roots to appear and develop.

2. Philodendron

Cut off a stem from the matured plant and place it into clean water. Once roots appear and develop well, you can transplant the stem into a pot with soil.

3. Umbrella Tree

Propagation of Schefflera is possible from stem cuttings planted in potting mix. Root development required one month if the pot is placed in a bright spot and is regularly watered.

4. African Violets

Rooting hormone is very helpful for some plants’ propagation. African Violet is one of these plants. Cut a stem from the mother plant and dip the end into the rooting hormone.

Then, plant it in a pot with potting mix. In about 1 month, roots will be developed.

5. Snake Plant

This is probably one of the easiest plants to start from a cutting. Simply take off a leaf from a matured Snake plant and dip it into water. If you want to propagate more than just one plant, cut the leaf into more pieces and place them into the potting mix.

6. Prayer Plant

The Prayer plant is another variety in our collection that can be easily grown from a cutting from the stem. Take a cutting below a node from the bottom part of the plant and place it into a flower pot with potting mix.

7. Croton

Propagation of Croton can be in water or in soil. If you choose the water method, then the development of roots will take a bit more.

Planting the stem directly in a potting mix makes sure that the plant is transplanted and ready to grow in the same place.

Leaf propagation is also possible but it must be in water.

8. Jade Plant

Jade plants can be propagated with stems and with leaves. Both should be placed into pots full of soil. To encourage root development, moisturize frequently and keep the pots somewhere with plenty of light.

9. Geraniums

Geraniums can be propagated in water and in soil. For that, cut a stem right above a node and clean the bottom leaves.

10. Begonia

All Begonia varieties can be propagated from cuttings. Take a stem from a matured plant and place it into a potting mix. Moisturize often to encourage rooting.

Some Begonias can propagate in water as well.

11. English Ivy

To propagate English Ivy, you need to cut off a stem that has at least two leaves sets.

To encourage development of roots, dip the end of the stem in a rooting hormone. Then, simply plant in a flower pot or grow it in a container of water.

12. Hoya

Hoya plant can be propagated by a stem placed in water or in soil. In both cases, cut a 5-6 inch stem with at least two leaves.

13. Black-Eyed Susan Vine

This plant can be propagated by placing a 6-8 inch stem in water or soil. Cut the stem below a node and then place it in a container with water or in a pot with potting mix.

14. String of Nickels

This plant feels best in an orchid potting mix. Before transplanting the newly developed plant in it, leave the cutting to create roots into damp sphagnum moss.

15. Wax Ivy

Wax Ivy is a gorgeous vine that adds interest to the home decor with its glossy deep green leaves with white edges.

To propagate it, choose the growing season for cutting 4-6 inches-long stems. Place them in a pot with sandy soil.

16. Arrowhead Vine

Arrowhead vine can be successfully grown in water. It is one of those plant varieties that give the interior a point of interest and that make it homier.

Take a cutting from the mother plant that has at least two leaves and dip it into water. Roots will appear in maximum of 3 weeks.

17. String of Pearls

The String of pearls is a modern indoor plant that features clusters draping down with oval-shaped leaves, hence its name.

You can propagate this plant from stem cuttings. Put them directly in a potting mix and moisturize them often to help the rooting process.

18. Grape Ivy

To propagate the Grape Ivy cut a stem with one node only. Cutting should be 3/4 to 1 1/4 inches below the node.

Most people that have experimented with Grape Ivy’s propagation, claim that the rooting hormone is very helpful for root development.

19. Creeping Fig

Pruning of the plant is actually the best way to propagate the Creeping Fig. Don’t toss the cuttings, take the bottom leaves down and then place the cuttings in water.

The glass container shouldn’t be in a place with direct sunlight.

20. ZZ Plant

ZZ plant can be propagated three ways- from a stem cutting, a leaf cutting and by division of the matured plant. Choose a healthy stem with dense and deep green leaves. Remove the leaves from the bottom part of the stem because it will stay either in water or in soil.

Enrooting in water is possible but it will take some more time compared to rooting in soil.

21. Chinese Money Plant

Propagation with cuttings is the easiest way to multiply your Chinese Money Plant also called Friendship Plant.

A matured plant produces many baby offsets that can be cut. Cut the baby plant as low in the soil as possible and then transfer it to a glass with water. If there are any leaves at the bottom part of the cutting, take them down.

22. String of Bananas

The plant string of bananas is easy and quickly propagated by cuttings placed in water or in well-draining soil. Cut a stem from a long strand from the matured plant.

Leave the cutting to dry for a night in order to make sure that there are no bacteria in the wound. Then you can propagate by planting the cutting end in soil, laying the entire cutting on soil or by placing it in water.

23. Fiddle Leaf Fig

The Fiddle Leaf Fig plant is amazing with its tall stems covered densely with large deep green leaves.

Propagate it by taking a branch from the matured plant. Remove the bottom leaves, dip the cutting into rooting hormone and plant into a pot with soil. Cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag to keep the environment moist and encourage rooting.

Every few days, take the bag down to let the plant breathe fresh air for 15 minutes.

24. Dumb Cane

You need a stem from the mother plant to multiply the Dieffenbachia. You can place the Dumb Cane cutting in soil or in water.

The second method is quicker and easier and you can see when the roots are developed enough. Put the glass container with the stem in a warm and bright spot and change the water every 4 to 5 days.

25. Ti Plant

This exotic indoor plant can grow up to 6 feet and enjoy its broad almost black leaves with purple edge variegation.

Propagating of Ti plant is possible in the water. Take a cutting from a matured plant and place it into a glass container with distilled water. Tap water can also be used but it should remain in the container for a few days or be boiled before placing the cutting in. These will clean the tap water from chlorine and fluoride which are harmful to this plant.

26. Split Leaf Plant

The queen of all indoor plants, Monstera, can be easily propagated by cuttings. Once a leaf grows, a new node appears. You can propagate by cutting the leaf below the node or taking a full cutting with more leaves and nodes down.

In all cases, the full cutting should be divided into separate sections consisting of one leaf and a node. If there are air roots, don’t cut them, leave them on the cutting. Then, simply place the stem cutting into a container with water. Roots will appear in 3 months.

27. Rubber Tree

The Rubber Tree is propagated with cuttings from a matured plant planted into soiless potting mix. Choose the stem, cut it from the matured plant and take down the bottom leaves.

Roll the remaining leaves with the glossy part inwards and wrap the roll with a band. This will keep the moist for longer which is important for the rooting process. Then place the stem into the potting mix and cover the plant and the pot with a clear plastic bag.

28. Silver Dollar Vine

Propagation of this modern-looking indoor plant happens with stems planted directly in the soil. Choose a cutting from the matured plant which is matured enough. Prepare a pot with succulent soil and plant the cutting into it.

The pot with the cutting should be kept in a place that is bright but shaded.

29. Dragon Tree

Propagation of Dracaena is good not only to multiply it but also to keep the mother plant in the shape you want as sometimes the stems grow sideways and too leggy.

You can propagate the Dragon Tree through cuttings only- top or stem cutting. Top cuttings make one new plant while stem cuttings can give multiple new plants.

Place the cutting into water. If there are leaves remaining in the water, take them down. Change the water every 5-6 days.

30. Weeping Fig

This elegant indoor plant can be propagated with stems. You can place the stems into water or in soil. Mind that propagation in soil happens slowlier compared to water propagation.

Easily expand your indoor garden with these houseplants that thrive from cuttings.

Tradescantia, philodendron, and pothos root quickly in water, while snake plants and ZZ plants grow effortlessly in soil.

Geraniums, African violets, and begonias bring vibrant blooms, and jade plants and fiddle-leaf figs add bold greenery.

Perfect for propagating and filling your home with lush, thriving plants!

What if you could grow a plant that will bring you wealth? Plants make excellent home decorations but are even better if they inspire wealth and good fortune. This article delves into the different types of money plants you can grow to achieve this. 

Let’s get to it!

Why are they called money plants?

For people who think this is an easy get-rich-quick scheme with plants yielding money, I’m sorry to disappoint you! These are named money plants because their foliage is round, plump, and resembles coins.

Another main reason is that it’s a common belief these plants bring financial wealth and good luck to the growers. 

10 Different Types Of Money Plants You Can Grow

1. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

In their natural habitat, South America, these plants can grow really tall. They are also not braided when growing in their natural habitat. The Pachira aquatica, the common variation of money trees as a houseplant, is significantly different since it can grow in a small pot and has braided trunks.

This plant will not only improve your fortunes but can also lead to improved air quality through the elimination of harmful toxins. 

So you won’t just be getting your money’s worth when purchasing this plant, but also a natural air purifier.

The Pachira Aquatica is characterized by dark green leaves with five leaflets. It’s believed these leaflets represent the five natural elements: air, water, earth, wind, and fire. These elements are highly significant in feng shui.

Is the money tree easy to care for?

This plant will thrive in bright, natural light. Rotate it frequently so it doesn’t bend to the light sources. As for watering, it can be done once a week. Ensure the excess water is drained to prevent the plant from being waterlogged and reduce the risk of root rot.

Where should the money tree be placed?

Since this plant doesn’t tolerate direct sunlight, the best place to put it will be in the room’s southeast corner. When placed in this direction, it’s believed to attract prosperity and good luck.

2. Lunaria

Lunaria is a fascinating flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family, also known as the mustard family. Despite the name, the plant’s flowers bear not even an ounce of mustard. They bloom in beautiful purple and pink colors and grow in clusters. 

The Lunaria is a biennial. This means the plant grows in a year while blooming occurs in the next year, usually during the early to mid-summer. At the end of the flowering period, the plant yields flat seed pods. 

The name Lunaria comes from Latin, meaning “moon-like”; this refers to the silvery and round seed pods that resemble the moon. Guess what is also round and silvery? That’s right! Money! Due to the unique shape and color of the seed pods, it’s believed that this plant brings money.

Other common names for the plant are Honesty and the silver dollar plant. Is there any more luck in the world than getting some Honest Silver Dollars?

How to take care of the Honesty plant

This plant doesn’t burden you with extreme care or attention. To grow the plant, spread the seeds in a nursery and thoroughly cover them with a little layer of soil and water. The plant enjoys direct sunlight but can also survive in partial shade. As for the soil, it’s no cause for concern as they have no specific type.

Can the Lunaria be grown indoors?

Of course! The plant can be grown indoors. However, ensure the seeds are planted seven weeks before the onset of the last frost, as they must be warm. 

3. Swiss Cheese Money Plant (Monstera Adansonii)

This is one perfect plant for beginner gardeners. This plant, which is native to Central and South America, is commonly grown as an indoor ornamental plant. The plant has magnificent dark green leaves that develop patches with time.

The patches on the plant resemble a cheese pattern thus the name Swiss cheese money plant. According to feng shui, the plant attracts money and positive energy. 

How to care for the Swiss cheese plant?

First, you’ll want to keep the plant away from direct sunlight as it thrives in indirect sunlight. Second, keep the plant out of reach of children and pets, as the leaves are toxic. Only water the plant when the soil is completely dry to the touch.

It would be best if you didn’t completely neglect the plant’s water needs as it may suffer from underwatering. 

4. Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata)

The Jade plant is one succulent that can survive for many years. The plant is indigenous to South Africa and is commonly used as a decorative houseplant because of its lovely leaves and captivating white and pink flowers.

Its small size makes it very portable, and can even be placed on a table to create a lively workspace.

How do you care for the jade plant?

Plant care for this money plant is easy; it thrives in moderate temperatures and can do with indirect sunlight. As for watering, ensure the plant is watered moderately to avoid root rot. The soil should always be allowed to dry before watering the plant again. 

5. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Commonly referred to as the Devil’s Ivy, this is a low-maintenance money plant with sharp leaves with a distinctive yellow pattern. In many cases, the plant is grown as a hanging plant to liven up a room.

If you need better luck in your life, you should get the trailing pothos known to symbolize good luck and prosperity!

How to care for the Pothos Epipremnum aureum?

This plant doesn’t tolerate strong direct light, so keep it in a place where it receives indirect sunlight. Water the plant once every two weeks to allow the soil to dry between waterings. This makes the plant perfect for people with busy schedules who may forget to water the plants. 

6. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

As the name suggests, the Lucky bamboo brings its owners luck and good fortune, especially if the plant was acquired as a gift from a friend or relative. Even though the plant is named lucky bamboo, it’s not actually bamboo. The name Dracaena comes from the fact that the stems or the stalks of the tree resemble a bamboo plant.

Is Lucky Bamboo really lucky?

As per Vastu Shastra, this plant brings wealth and good fortune, especially if the plant is placed in an office. 

How to take care of the lucky bamboo plant?

The best thing about this plant is that it can be grown both in soil and water. If you choose to grow the plant in water, ensure you provide the plant with filtered water every week and that the container is cleaned after every few months.

As for soil propagation, ensure the soil is always well-drained and moist.

7. Marble Queen Money plant (Epipremnum aureum ‘Marble Queen’)

The queen of the money plants, the Marble Queen plant, is one of the most exquisite plants in this category. Its name comes from the variegated leaves with creamy and white patterns that make the plant seem to grow marbles rather than leaves. 

Like many other pothos,  the Marble Queen will do well indoors and is very adaptable in different growing environments. This makes the plant very ideal for beginners and new plant enthusiasts. However, ensure it’s kept away from pets and children since it has mild toxicity. 

When buying this plant, be keen to get the right plant as it closely resembles the snow queen pothos. 

How should you take care of the Marble Queen Money Plant?

This beautiful queen doesn’t need frequent watering as it does well in fairly arid conditions. When watering the plant, make sure that the water has soaked down to the roots and then drain any excess water.

8. Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomioides)

Also known as the pancake plant, coin plant, Pilea peperomioides, or the Chinese money plant, whatever you choose to call it, this eye-catching plant has beautiful, round green leaves that resemble coins. It’s like your change growing on a tree!

Due to its unique look and association with luck and good fortune, the plant has become a sensation in many homes.

How to care for the Chinese money plant?

Even though the plant prefers bright light, don’t expose it to direct, intense sunlight, as it may get scorched. Water the plant once every week. Before watering, ensure the soil is dry, as the plant doesn’t thrive in soggy soil.

Where should you place the Chinese money plant?

When choosing an ideal location for the plant, ensure it’s in a place where it can receive plenty of indirect sunlight and sufficient warmth throughout the day. This allows the leaves to absorb enough light, which is crucial in the plant’s photosynthesis process to generate energy.

9. Silver Money Plant (Scindapsus pictus)

Native to Southeast Asia, this plant is also known as the Satin Pothos and is one of the easiest houseplants to care for. 

The plant has unique heart-shaped leaves with shimmering gray patterns and is matte in color. Its trailing tendrils tend to grow rapidly. 

How should I take care of the silver money plant?

This plant isn’t a fan of direct sunlight either, so you better keep it off the windows. When exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves will not only lose their beautiful variegation but also get scorched.

The ideal place to grow this plant will be in hanging baskets near windows, but not exposed directly to the light. You can use curtains to protect the plant from direct sunlight. 

10. Split Leaf Money Plant (Monstera deliciosa)

Wondering where this plant gets its unique name? You guessed it right! The split-leaf philodendron has uniquely split leaves, hence the name. The leaves of this already lovely plant become even more split as it matures, making it even more beautiful.

This plant can grow up to 140 cm tall indoors, depending on the size of the pot.

How do you take care of the monstera split leaf?

Grow the plant in well-draining soil where it can receive plenty of indirect sunlight. This plant shouldn’t be overwatered, so water once weekly and adjust the watering schedule during the hot summer months.

Since the plant thrives in damp soil, don’t let it completely dry out, and only water when the top 2-3 inches of the soil dry out. 

Why Do Monstera Leaves Split?

One theory is that leaves split to let light through and reach the leaves at the bottom of the plant. Another theory is that the leaves split to allow water to pass through the heavy leaves and prevent the stem from breaking during heavy rains.

The Best Money Plants for Feng Shui

Money plants are some of the best plants to use to capture the essence of Feng Shui and bring good luck into your home. Some of the most popular plants used in Feng Shui to bring good luck are Pachira aquatica, Jade plant, and Pilea peperomioides.

These plants not only bring good luck and fortune, but they’ll also make your space look much more relaxed.

Are Money Plants Really Worth the Money?

For one, these plants will make your home more delightful and beautiful with their exquisite foliage. They can also inspire and bring positive energy and fortune into your home. Even though they may not cost you a lot, these plants can earn you a lot if you grow and place them right!

If you want to change your luck, don’t hesitate to get the money plant or gift one to your friend!

Invite prosperity and positive energy into your home with these beautiful money plants.

The money tree and jade plant symbolize wealth, while lucky bamboo attracts good fortune.

Golden pothos and marble queen money plants are easy to grow, and the Chinese money plant is known for financial blessings.

With Swiss cheese, silver, and split-leaf money plants, your space will be both lucky and lush!