Houseplants

Rattlesnake plant – How to Grow and Care

Updated: June 24, 2020

If you are a pattern lover and you like to grow the natural caring, beautiful jolly plant, then the Rattlesnake Plant is the perfect indoor houseplant for you.

What is the Rattlesnake plant?

Background

The scientific name of the Rattlesnake plant is Calathea lancifolia, which belongs to the prayer plant family Marantaceae. It is native to the rainforest of Brazil and is hardy in USDA plant zones ten or above. This plant is known for its exciting patterns and attractive foliage.

The plant grows up to a height of 30 inches. This houseplant is a decorative plant having spotted leaves and deep purple undersides. It has long, wavy green, lance-shaped leaves with a pattern of deep green brushstrokes on the top of the blade. The bottom of the leaves is purple, and they also fold up at night like prayer-plants. In suitable conditions, the plant produces bright blooms during late spring and early summer. This plant is non-toxic to pets.

Lanced-shaped leaves with deep green brushstrokes

Scientific classification of a Rattlesnake plant

Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Order:	Zingiberales
Family:	Marantaceae
Genus:	Calathea
Species:	C. lancifolia

Things to know before growing

When to grow a Rattlesnake plant?

The Rattlesnake plant grows from May to August. The best time to propagate this plant is during spring.

Where to grow a Rattlesnake plant?

The Rattlesnake plant is adequately grown in light, medium, and well-drained soils. A bright indirect light or a little part of shade is preferable. Do not propagate the plant in a dark location. Morning sunlight is suitable for the growth of the plant, but it is best to avoid afternoon sunlight. Use a container having a drainage hole to grow the plant, and to prevent soggy soil. Most of the people grow this plant indoors up to a height of 1 foot and a half. When this plant is grown outdoor then, it raises a foot longer than growing indoors.

How to grow a Rattlesnake plant?

You can grow this plant, both indoor and outdoor. These plants grow quickly, and you can propagate the plant in the container. While reproducing the rattlesnake plant, do not put it in the direct sunlight, because the plant may lose its beautiful green spots. You can grow Calathea lancifolia through division and cutting.

How to grow a Rattlesnake plant from the division method?

The division is the easiest method to propagate a Rattlesnake plant. Divide the parent plant during the repotting time. Choose the healthy plant for division method and also separate stems into segments.

Steps to grow a Rattlesnake plant from division method are:

Fill 2/3 of the container with a well-drained potting mix.
Water the soil to settle it down.
Place the divisions spacing few inches apart and 1.5 inches deep in the soil. You can put only one division in an individual pot.
Sprinkle some soil above it and water it.
Cover it with the plastic bag.
Place the container in the location with bright indoor light.
After 2-3 weeks, you will see new growth in it.

How to grow a Rattlesnake plant from cuttings?

Another best way to propagate your rattlesnake plant is through cutting.

Steps to grow a Rattlesnake plant from cuttings are:

Take a sharp and sterile knife to proceed with the cuttings.
Cut off the head cuttings with at least two leaves and cut off the shoots at the base.
Take a new pot and fill it with the potting mix.
Place the cuttings in the soil and water it.
Cover it with a plastic bag, but don’t forget to give some air every day for about 10-20 minutes.
Place it in the bright spot.
After several weeks, the new plant should be rooted, and you can replant it.

Care of the Rattlesnake plant

The Rattlesnake plant is not that difficult to care for. You should care for the rattlesnake plant properly. Some of the tips for caring this plant are as follows:

Sun and temperature

The rattlesnake plant thrives well in warm room temperature. The temperature should be between 60 degrees Fahrenheit to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If the plant is kept in cold condition with the heat of 50 degrees Fahrenheit or below then, the leaves start to turn brown or droop. Avoid sudden temperature changes too. A bright indirect light or a little part of shade is preferable. Do not propagate the plant in a dark location. Morning sunlight is suitable for the growth of the plant, but it is best to avoid afternoon sunlight.

Water and humidity

Water the Rattlesnake plant lightly just to keep the soil moist. Do not allow the leaves to wilt, and never water the plant to the point of sogginess. This plant loves humid areas, so you can put some pebbles in the pot to hold moisture. You can also use a humidifier for this purpose. Water the plant every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out halfway down in between the waterings. The rattlesnake plant does better in higher humidity conditions.

Soil

The Rattlesnake plant grows well in the potting mix that drains well. If the soil is too heavy, then it may rot the fibrous root. Soggy soil leads to root rot. For better results, use a lightweight potting mix and a slow-release fertilizer. 2 part peat and 1 part perlite is suitable for the soil. Rattlesnake plant likes moist soil, but they do not grow well in overly wet soil. The soil should be loamy and sandy type having a pH value of 6.1 to 6.5. Add some amount of sand to enhance the drainage.

Fertilization

You can feed the rattlesnake plant during the growing season. You can use a diluted solution of water-soluble fertilizer. Make sure the soil is moist during fertilizing. Use balanced liquid fertilizer for the foliage to look healthy. Feed the plant once a month from April to August.

Pruning

It does not take long for the maintenance of Calathea lancifolia. Pruning this plant is very easy. Remove spent blooms of the growing rattlesnake plant. Prune damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy. Do not use leaf shine products on the rattlesnake plant as it can harm the plant rather than care. The large leaves of the plant tend to be dust catchers. Wipe them off using a soft, moist towel.

Propagation

You can propagate the rattlesnake plant both indoor and outdoor. The rattlesnake plants are quickly grown indoors, and you can reproduce the plant in container or pot. While planting the rattlesnake plant, do not put it in the direct sunlight, because the plant may lose its beautiful green spots. You can grow a rattlesnake plant through division and cutting. Both methods are easy to propagate this plant.

Treatment of various diseases of the Rattlesnake plant.

Pest and treatment

The main pests the Rattlesnake plant experiences are:

Whiteflies
Aphids
Fungus gnats
Thrips
Mealybugs
Red Spider mites

If the Rattlesnake plant shows any sign of these insect pest infestations, do not hesitate to use insecticides. Apply Neem oil or Silicon Dioxide for seven days. You can also use homemade sprays, and test it in leaves before applying it to the whole plant. Soap spray is an excellent homemade spray to remove these pests. Mix two tablespoons of soap to a gallon of water and spray it to the plant properly.

Spray oil or sprinkle some powder on your plant so that there is a light layer on the leaves and the soil. The bugs and insects will walk through it and die soon after it comes in contact with them. Using yellow sticky traps helps to cut down the population of Fungus gnat, or you can also try using dryer sheets to remove them. You can also use a cotton ball soaked in alcohol to wipe away these insect rogues.

Diseases and treatment

The Rattlesnake plant suffers from a lot of issues. The problems mostly occur when they are grown in poorly-drained soil or low light. Excessive watering, fertilization, and poor circulation leading to issues such as:

Burnt leaves

Symptoms: Wilting and abscission of the leaf.

Treatment: Avoid over-fertilization and water the plant slowly.

Root rot

Symptoms: Wilting and discolored leaves, brown roots.

Treatment: Remove brown roots with sterilized scissors, and replant affected plants in fresh soil and good drainage.

Botrytis

Symptoms: Discoloration, spotting, and wilting of Rattlesnake flowers

Treatment: Prune plants to improve air circulation and add the right amount of organic compost.

Curled leaves

Symptoms: The leaves of the plants are drooping, and it curls inwards and downwards.

Treatment: water the plant, and keep the soil moist.

Best use of a Rattlesnake plant

Some of the uses of this plant are listed below:

It helps you to breathe as they release oxygen in both day and night.
The Rattlesnake plant removes toxins and purifies the air.
In the therapeutic area, the rattlesnake plant helps to prevent diseases such as sore throat, dry cough, headaches, fevers, cold, and many others.
Rattlesnake plant is also used as an ornamental plant, and it looks great when placed indoor.
It merely adds beautiful and natural color to the house and your working space.

25 best indoor plants that can grow in low light

Updated: June 17, 2020

Indoor plants fill the rooms with a unique atmosphere. As far as light is concerned, however, not all living spaces are suitable for offering adequate lighting for indoor plants. Houseplants that don’t need a lot of light can still be placed in dark spots and thus refresh your living space with shiny green and colorful flowers. Here is some list of plants that you can grow in your home easier to purify the air as well as to decorate your home.

Juniperus Procumbens Nana

This evergreen plant is ground cover is a basic element of the landscape. Still, Juniperus Procumbens ‘Nana’ can thrive in the living room (juniper grows strong roots, so find a container that lets them stretch). Reinstall a two-foot-tall industrial cylinder with a drain hole at the bottom.

Philodendron

One of the best varieties of indoor plants, philodendron, is very tolerant of the dark interior. This fast-growing vine works in hanging baskets or can train to climb a small trellis or totem pole. Two new varieties offer colorful foliage. The “Brasil” variety has splendid gold and green variegated foliage and “Micans” sports purple wet leaves with a satin-like texture. Light: low light or indirect light, water: when the ground is dry to the touch, Length: the rods of the rails can reach up to 8 feet.

Passionflower

Most gardeners consider vines to be outdoor athletes, ready to train on sidewalks and outside walls. But climbers can slow down the windows in the house as long as you provide them with something to scale (a couple of nails and fishing line will do the trick). Place your Passionflower Caerula in a shallow clay pot, then add it with an upside-down vintage egg basket that serves as the jungle gym of the tendril.

Paddle Plant

This little-known soot deserves to storm America’s living rooms, “says Tovah Martin, author of The Unexpected Houseplant. Why? The red-toned leaves of Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora are like a giant flower – one that fits perfectly all year round. “It is also practically insurmountable,” says Martin. To ensure adequate drainage, apply a layer of activated pebbles and charcoal on the pot earlier, filling it with potting soil, then allow the soil dry between irrigation.

Monterey Cypress

Marketed as small Christmas trees in December, Cupressus macrocarpa ‘Goldcrest’ often ends up in the January trash. Martin has given three of them a new purpose in his foyer. Grouped in a galvanized metal window (perched on a tray that allows the runoff to flow), the trio serves as a natural privacy screen in its foyer – an idea that took none other than Harriet Beecher Stowe.

Albuca bracteata

The humorous acoustic name of this curved bulb is the main reason for its growth: Ornithogalum Longibracteatum makes children. Tons of kids. The main bulb continuously produces bulbs, perfect for gifts. And their requirements are minimal: in fact, irrigation is not the main requirement. Design a smart perch by mounting a bathtub foot, which supports a slab, on a door.

Prayer Plant

The beautifully veined leaves define the plant of prayer (they fly high while praying when darkness comes). It is a fun plant to add to kitchen counters and window sills. Keep sure it has access to moderate light and also keep the soil moist.

Lipstick Plant

It’s easy to see where it’s named after. It works well in full indirect light but thrives in filtered light. Be careful not to overheat it to direct the sun, as this can burn the leaves and dry the plant. Keep the soil is moist, not wet. For good growth, rotate it at least once a month.

Aglaonema

In recent years the red of Aglaonema which is also known as Chinese Evergreens has taken the world of home plantations by storm. With extraordinary green leaves, this houseplant promises even the darkest room, although you can find varieties with red or even pink foliage. Aglaonema doesn’t even care about dry soil, so it’s a great gift for forgetful gardeners. Originally known as the Chinese evergreen, Aglaonema is almost silly. Light: low light or indirect light, Water: Water when the ground is dry to the touch, Length: up to 3 feet tall.

Hoya Carnosa Rubra

Also known as Wax plant, like other hoyas, this tracking beauty is perfect for viewing in a window that takes bright but indirect light. “They love moisture, so try wasting it once a week and let the soil dry between irrigations. Repot during spring or summer when the roots begin to cry out of the drain hole.

Burgundy Rubber Tree

It is sharper than its popular cousin, the fig tree with violin leaves, and can grow up to 25 feet indoors. When it comes to light, it’s good to keep it’s bright and indirect light. Keep the soil humid during the growing season, which is summer. In winter, less moisture is needed in the soil.

Aralia Fabian

Its beauty and strangeness derive from its thick corpulent stocking, the thin trout branches, and the pancake-shaped foliage with a dark green tint on the top and a purple hue on the bottom. To take care of it, put your plant in a pot with a drain hole and Water until Water comes out in the lower tray. Repeat only when the best two centimeters of soil is completely dry. It can live in a nice place with bright indirect light. If not, you have it; even a mix of the dappled sun during the day will work well.

Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)

This is a very popular plant with many surnames such as UFOs, pancakes, and Chinese silver, it love humidity makes it a great way to add color to a bathroom. Sprouted leaf discs could work in any space with indirect light. Allow the soil to dry between water to avoid root rot. Their leaves will drop slightly when they are thirsty.

Jade

Unlike other plants, it can survive for about a day in direct sunlight, Put it in a pot with a drain hole and water every two weeks, except when the first two inches of soil are dry. To keep it fresh, you just need to grab the dying or dry branches

Ficus Alii

This is an affirmative plant, and The beautiful long green foliage sets it apart from other ficus trees. It is also more resistant and less prone to drop leaves. It needs a lot of indirect sunlight and will not survive in poor conditions. Brightness: Keep the soil constantly moist, and don’t let your upper thumb dry out before watering.

ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant strikes aesthetically, and yes, it accepts extremely little light (in fact, you could leave it in a dark corner if this is your only space). But it was the name of the initial conversation that gave us the maximum implication! Water sparingly, and only when the few inches of soil are dry.

Air Plant

Air plants – also known as Tillandsia – retain moisture from the air and do not require soil growth (proper, zero). With a minimal root system and over 500 species to choose from, there is an extraordinary variety of visually interesting options, which can view in beautiful air plants.

Monstera Deliciosa

Also known as Swiss Cheese Plant, with its thick leaves, like Swiss cheese and its tropical atmosphere, Monstera deliciosa is a perfectly heavy plant that can truly flourish in an apartment. They can endure many levels of sunlight and even grow under fluorescent lights. Also, if you should water your Monstera regularly, it can sometimes survive without water.

Red Prayer Plant

With red veins hitting the soft dark green leaves, the Red Prayer plant is an aesthetic dream, and its low maintenance makes it perfect for room inhabitants. It should be kept in little too bright indirect sunlight, watered regularly and wasted once a week, but can sometimes experience low light.

Pothos

The pothos plant can usually be hung from a basket or in a pot and thrives in a wide variety of lighting conditions. It is also known for its air-purifying properties and can remove toxins that can remove gas from furniture and carpets.

Cast-Iron Plant

The cast iron plant can survive in low light conditions, in poor soils, and without much water, making it one of the most resistant, indoor plants. Bright green pop leaves provide excellent color in your home.

Cactus

Funky and unclear caterpillars are probably poster plants for non-garden environments. They only need water once a week as they grow, and in cold weather, you can stop watering every few weeks or a month. Keep it in a sunny area, but keep away from direct sunlight, making the cactus look bleached or even orange. The fusion of cactus with a range of apartment styles has an irresistible aesthetic, from bohemian to modern.

Snake Plant

This aspiration is extremely tough and can survive in almost any environment. The snake plant has tall, thin leaves that can tolerate low light (although it thrives in the medium or intense sun). Water occasionally, letting the soil dry between watering. The plant grows best in normal internal temples – between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Lucky Bamboo

If you want to add vegetation to the dark parts of your apartment, lucky bamboo is your ideal plant. It works well in indirect sunlight and can add a great feeling of feng shui and Zen to your space – a lot of help for crowded city apartments. Cultivate lucky bamboo in water, changing it every week.

Lavender

It could be an unconventional indoor plant, but a lavender pop pot will give your apartment a much better (and much more natural) color and renovation than an air freshener. Lavender grows best in bright light, so place it next to a south-facing window that welcomes a lot of suns. The smaller types are the best indoors and can be exposed to increasing light if you don’t have enough sun in your apartment.

Oxalis triangularis – How to Grow and Care

Updated: June 8, 2020

If you are planning to have a natural caring and beautiful houseplant, I would like to suggest you grow an Oxalis triangularis also known as False Shamrock plant, a popular ornamental plant.

What is the Oxalis triangularis?

Background

The scientific name of the False Shamrock plant is Oxalis triangularis, which belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to South America, Brazil, and hardy in USDA zone 8-11. Other common names are purple shamrock, wood sorrel, and love plant. The plant has picked up its common name from the Irish shamrock symbol that refers to a triangular three-leaved plant or the clover.

Oxalis triangularis grows up to 12 inches tall and about 24 inches wide. The purple shamrock plant is a bulb-type flowering plant having deep maroon leaves. It has three purple-shaped heart leaves, which may be purple, nearly black, reddish, or green. The leaves of the purple shamrock plant close at night and reopen during the daytime. They bloom small e trumpet-shaped flowers during summer and spring. The variation of colors of the bloom is purple, white, or pink. It is quite an attractive when mixed with plants with white or silver foliage like Dusty Miller or Spider Plant. The Oxalis triangularis plant is edible but toxic to pets, and they are both rabbit and deer resistant.

Scientific classification of Oxalis triangularis

Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Order:	Oxalidales
Family:	Oxalidaceae
Genus:	Oxalis
Species:	O. triangularis

Varieties of Oxalis triangularis plants

The Oxalis triangularis plant falls into one of three subspecies: subsp. papilionacea, subsp. Glabrifolia and subsp. lepida. Some of the species of this purple shamrock plant are reddish, green, or purple. Some of the varieties of plants are as follows:

Oxalis triangularis Francis

Oxalis triangularis Francis is a bright purple shamrock. It is one of the most popular cultivated forms, and it is vividly purple—the flower blooms during its flowering season from white to lavender-pink.

Oxalis triangularis Charmed Jade

Oxalis triangularis charmed Jade is bright green. This variety of false shamrock plant is not purple or red range. It is not as popular as the darker varieties, but it is still an absolute delight. It blooms medium-green color with ivory or white flowers.

Oxalis triangularis Ebony Allure

Ebony Allure is a lovely variation that is hardy in zones 7-9. The direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it is best kept in partial shade. The leaves of this variety of Oxalis triangularis plants are so dark that they can be mistaken for black. The flowers of Ebony Allure begin as a pale pink and fade to white.

Purple triangular leaves of a False Shamrock plant — Purple-triangular leaves of Oxalis triangularis plant

Where to grow an Oxalis triangularis plant?

The Oxalis triangularis plant is quickly grown in light, medium, well-drained soils. A bright direct light or a little part of shade is preferable. Do not propagate the plant in a dark location.

How to grow Oxalis triangularis plant?

The Oxalis triangularis is lovely, both indoors and outdoors. It is a perfect houseplant, and the purple shamrock plant can be propagated by seed or division. They can be grown alone or in combination with other plants.

How to grow an Oxalis triangularis plant from the division method?

The division method for growing an Oxalis triangularis plant is the most reliable. Try to avoid cutting rhizome while using this method for propagation. Divide the bulbs of the plant from its roots into a smaller clump.

Steps to grow a plant from the division method are:

Fill 2/3 of the container with a well-drained potting mix.
Water the soil to settle it down.
Place the purple shamrock bulbs spacing few inches apart and 1.5 inches deep in the soil. You can put three bulbs in a single pot.
Cover the bulbs with soil and water it.
Place the container in the location with bright indoor light.
After 2-3 weeks, you will see new growth in the bulb.

How to grow an Oxalis triangularis plant from seeds?

You can also propagate an Oxalis triangularis through seeds. The seeds of this plant are readily available in the garden centers or grocery stores.

Steps to grow an Oxalis triangularis plant from seeds are:

Fill 2/3 of the container with a well-drained potting mix.
Water the soil to settle it down.
Sow some seeds on the top of soil about ½ inch deep.
Add a thin layer of soil above the planted seeds, and water it.
Cover the top of the container with plastic to keep the soil moist.
Place the container or pot in the sunny location with bright direct sunlight.
After a few days, you will start to see germinations.
Remove the plastic cover and place it in a sunny location.

How to Care Oxalis triangularis plant?

This plant is easy to care for. You should care for the purple shamrock plant properly. Some of the tips for caring this plant are as follows:

Light and temperature requirement

The plant grows well in bright to medium direct sunlight, and it can also tolerate a pleasant shade. This plant grows well in the morning light. The temperature should be between 60 degrees Fahrenheit to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the night. The temperature should not be higher than 75 degrees Fahrenheit, as it can cause the problem to the plant.

Water and humidity

You should allow the soil to dry in between the watering of the plant. Overwatering the plant can rot the bulb, and even kill the plant. Remember to stop watering the plant, if the plant becomes dormant. Water the plant once in a week. Average room humidity is suitable for the false shamrock plant.

Soil

The Oxalis triangularis grows well in the potting mix that drains well. If the soil is too heavy, then it may rot the bulb or fibrous root. For better results, use a lightweight potting mix and a slow-release fertilizer. Oxalis triangularis likes moist soil, but they do not grow well in overly wet soil. The soil should be loamy and sandy type having a pH value of 6.1 to 6.5.

Fertilization

Feed the plant once every 1 or 2 weeks. Do not feed in winter and fall when the plant during dormancy. You should not fertilize the plant for the first year of growth. You can use commercial fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer, but organic compost is the best.

Pruning

It does not take long for the maintenance of oxalis triangularis. Pruning this plant is very easy. Remove the spent flower stalks once the blooms fade. Trim the brown foliage to about 1 inch from the plant’s base, and leave the mulch to cool the plant’s base. Move the plant to a cold and dark place for few days until the plant becomes healthy.

Propagation

The purple shamrock plant can be propagated by seed or division. The most reliable method of propagation is through division. This plant can be grown alone or in combination with other plants. The reproduction of the plant is done best when it is in the dormant stage. For the propagation of plants, the deep pot is preferred rather than the shallow one.

Treatment of various diseases of the Oxalis triangularis

Pest and treatment

The main pests the Oxalis triangularis plant experiences are:

• Whiteflies

• Aphids

• Fungus gnats

• Mealybugs

• Red Spider mites

If the False Shamrock plant shows any sign of these insect pest infestations, do not hesitate to use insecticides. Apply Neem oil or Silicon Dioxide for seven days. You can also use homemade sprays, and test it in leaves before applying it to the whole plant. Soap spray is an excellent homemade spray to remove these pests. Mix two tablespoons of soap to a gallon of water and spray it to the plant properly.

Diseases and treatment

The false shamrock plant suffers from a lot of issues. The problems mostly occur when they are grown in poorly-drained soil or low light. Excessive watering and poor circulation also lead to issues such as:

Powdery mildew

Symptoms: White powdery mildew in the leaves of False Shamrock plant

Treatment: Spraying milk solution or Neem water can stop it from spreading.

Root rot

Symptoms: Wilting and discolored leaves, brown roots.

Treatment: Remove brown roots with sterilized scissors, and replant affected plants in fresh soil and good drainage.

Burnt leaves

Symptoms: Wilting and abscission of the leaf.

Treatment: Avoid over-fertilization and water the plant slowly.

Rust

Symptoms: Pale leaf spots, and small light yellow flecks on the foliage.

Treatment: Remove infected parts and destroy them.

Botrytis

Symptoms: Discoloration, spotting, and wilting of False Shamrock flowers

Treatment: Prune plants to improve air circulation and add the right amount of organic compost.

Uses of an Oxalis triangularis

Some of the uses of this plant are listed below:

This houseplant purifies the indoor air and adds natural beauty.
The leaves of oxalis triangularis have antimicrobial properties.
It helps to purify the blood and maintain cholesterol levels.
It is used for decorative purposes, and are also gifted.
The false shamrock plant attracts butterflies and bees for the pollination process.

Shamrock plant- How to Plant, Care, and Uses

Updated: June 8, 2020 Leave a Comment

Shamrock plant (Oxalis regnellii)

If you are looking for an indoor plant that is easy to grow in the pot, then I would like to suggest you Shamrock plant, a lovely houseplant.

What is a Shamrock plant?

Shamrock plant, scientifically named Oxalis regnellii, is a small specimen that falls under the genus Oxalis of the family Oxalidaceae. It is also commonly known as black plant, black Shamrock, Wine Shamrock, Black Oxalis, and many more. Shamrock plant is an attractive indoor plant, native to tropical America and South Africa. It is a simple houseplant, and there is a saying that this plant brings good luck. Four leaved Shamrock plant is a rare one to find.

Talking about the description of the Shamrock plant, the plant grows up to 1 foot. The leaves are clover-shaped, which comes up in the range of many shades. The leaves open during the day and fold up at night. They have three-lobed green or burgundy colored foliage. The flower of the plant is trumpet-shaped that blooms off and on during the fall. The flower colors are white, pink, rose, lavender, and mauve has grayish purple veins. Shamrock plants are rich in nutrients such as iron, nitrogen, oxalic acid, and many more.

Scientific classification of a Shamrock plant

Kingdom: Plantae

Clade: Tracheophytes

Order: Oxalidales

Family: Oxalidaceae

Genus: Oxalis

Species: O. regnellii

Varieties of Shamrock plant

There are over 500 different types of Shamrock plant. Some of the varieties are transformed to weed when it is imported into other regions. Different species of Shamrock plants are of varying sizes, and they have different colored flowers.
Some of the varieties of Shamrock plant are as follows:-

1. Oxalis Regnellii:

Oxalis Regnellii is also known as lucky Shamrock and purple oxalis. This type is native to South America. They have large purple-colored triangular leaves and white flowers that bloom all season round. Oxalis regnellii prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It is an attractive ornamental plant that is easy to grow.

2. Oxalis tetraphylla:

Oxalis tetraphylla is also known as Iron Cross. It is a four-leaved Shamrock having bicolor leaves. The leaf has dark red in the middle part and green around the outside portion. The height of the plant reaches from 6 inches to 12 inches, and it spread to 8 inches.

3. Oxalis Stricta:

Oxalis Stricta is also known as yellow wood sorrel or North American Woodsorrel. It is one of the common lawn weed. This type of plant is native to Eurasia and North America. They have yellow flowers and heart-shaped leaves growing in green stems. The leaves open during the night and curl up at night. It is an edible plant that reduces fever, nausea, and stomach cramps.

4. Oxalis Acetosella:

Oxalis Acetosella is also known as common wood sorrel. This type is native to Asia and Europe. They have heart-shaped leaves with reddish-brown stems and white flowers. It is an edible part that has medicinal purposes such as it helps to cure sore throat, cramps, nausea, and soothing mouth sores.

5. Oxalis Purpurea:

Oxalis Purpurea is also known as Cape Oxalis. They have dark-green colored diamond-shaped leaves. The colors of the flower are white and pink.

6. Oxalis Albicans:

Oxalis Albicans is also known as Hairy Woodsorrel or white oxalis. This type of plant is native to Southwestern US, northern Mexico, and California. It is a small plant having green colored heart-shaped leaves. Its height increases up to 6 inches. It has a little yellow flower that blooms all season. Oxalis Albicans is also considered as an invasive weed.

Purple Shamrock Plant with white flowers

How to grow a Shamrock plant?

Shamrock plant grows from the tiny bulbs, corns, or rhizomes. This plant grows well in partial sun and well-drained soil. This plant is well grown indoors. You can prune the Shamrock plant from seeds. The step of using this method is the same as that of pruning through the bulb. Instead of a bulb, sow some seeds in the pot filled with fertile soil and keep it in the window side that gets sunlight.

How to grow a Shamrock plant from the bulb?

You can grow a Shamrock plant from bulb using the following steps:-

Firstly select the location to grow the plant. The area having partial sunlight is preferred.
Take a pot and fill it with moist and fertile soil.
You can also add compost or potting mix in the mud.
Place the small tuber of Shamrock plant in the soil about a half-inch deep, and the distance between each tuber must be 1/2 one inch apart.
Spread some mud from the top, and water it to keep the soil moist.
After two weeks, you will start to see sprouts.

How to care for a Shamrock plant?

Shamrock plants are easy to care for. You should take care of the plant correctly, especially when you have pets around. Some of the tips to care a Shamrock plant are listed below:

The soil should be fertile, moist, and well-drained with a pH of 5.5 to 7.
Let the soil dry out in between the watering of the plant.
Water the plant every two days.
The plant grows well in partial shade. Too much bright direct sun can kill the plant.
The temperature at night should be between 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant grows best if the temperatures do not exceed 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime.
Fertilize the plant every two weeks.
Trim the plant leaves removing the bugs and dispose of the cut foliage properly.

Uses of a Shamrock plant.

Some of the purposes of the Shamrock plant are:

Shamrock plant helps to purify the blood and maintains cholesterol level.
The extracts from the leaves of this plant help you to get rid of respiratory problems.
Shamrock plants are the parts of Irish wedding as it is present in the bouquet.
They are rich in antioxidants.
The white and pink flowers of the Shamrock plant are beautiful and attractive, so they are also used for the decorations.
In Germany, three-leaf clover is used in the coat of arms.

Side effects of a Shamrock plant.

The Shamrock plant has some of the side effects such as:-

Shamrock plant contains oxalic acid, so it is unsafe for pets.
If it is consumed in large quantities, then it can also cause kidney damage.

Arrowhead Plant- How to Grow and Care

Updated: June 28, 2020 Leave a Comment

What is an Arrowhead plant?

The scientific name of an Arrowhead plant is Syngonium podophyllum, which is from Araceae family. Some of its common names are arrowhead vine, five fingers, American evergreen, and nephthytis. An Arrowhead plant is a perennial plant that is native to South America. They are easy to care for as a houseplant.

White-flowered Arrowhead plant — Arrowhead plant’s flower

As the name suggests, it has arrow-shaped, long-lobed, and divided leaves. The Arrowhead plant has a distinctive blade. When the plant matures, the edge changes from arrow-shaped to a five-lobed form. The five-lobed shape of the leaf represents the five elements: water, earth, fire, wood, and metal. Each leaf is of size ranging from 1.5 dm to 6 dm long. Some of the flowers are white, pink, or yellow. When the plant is matured, its flower blooms more outdoors, in its natural habitat. The flowers bloom in the set of three long white petals on the central stem from July to September. Its root is white and thin.

This plant grows up to 6 feet indoors, and much high when planted outdoors. The plant should be repotted in every second spring because of its spreading root structure. Arrowhead plants are rich in nutrients such as protein, carbohydrate, fiber, Vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and sodium.

Scientific classification of an Arrowhead plant

Kingdom: Plantae

Order: Alismatales

Family: Araceae

Genus: Syngonium

Species: S. podophyllum

Types of Arrowhead plant

There are over 30 species of Arrowhead plants. The plants are of different sizes and have different colored leaves. There are only two varieties of Arrowhead plants that grow in the wild: Syngonium Podophyllum and Syngonium Peliocadum.

Some common types of Arrowhead plant are:-

Berry Allusion

It is also known as Berry Allusion Nephthytis. It is grown quickly, and they have light green leaves with shades of pink and cream.

Bold Allusion

It is also known as Bold Allusion Nephthytis. It is a beautiful and slow-growing variety of Arrowhead. It has creamy-green leaves with pink veins.

Cream Allusion

It is also known as Cream Allusion Nephthytis. It is one of the compact variety having medium-sized leaves. The leaves are creamy-green and saturated with pink color.

Exotic Allusion

It is also known as Exotic Allusion Nephthytis. This variety of Arrowhead has light green leaves having creamy white color in the blade.

Holly

It is also known as Holly Nephthytis. This variety has white leaves having some green edges and veins.

Julia Allusion

It is also known as Julia Allusion Nephthytis. This compact variety of Arrowhead plant has a light green leaf which is flushed with coppery pink color.

Maria Allusion

It is also known as Maria Allusion Nephthytis. This new variety has light green leaves. The leaves are shaded and filled with coppery pink color.

Painted Arrow

It is also known as Painted Arrow Nephthytis. This variety is a lovely one, and it has creamy-green leaves covered with light green spots.

Pink Allusion

It is also known as Pink Allusion Nephthytis. It has light green leaves with pink veins, and its edge has a dark green color.

Strawberry Cream

It is also known as Strawberry Cream Arrowhead Vine. This variety has a unique leaf growth. When it is kept in bright light, then the leaf color turns out to be the best one.

White Butterfly

It is also known as White Butterfly Arrowhead Vine. It is one of the most popular varieties having greenish-white leaves. The edges of the leaf are dark green.

How to grow an Arrowhead plant?

Arrowhead plants can also be grown outdoors, but it is typically a houseplant, which grows indoor. It can be planted alone or along with other plants. You should propagate this plant in low or medium light. While growing indoors, you can grow best in a hanging basket.

How to grow an Arrowhead plant in a pot?

An arrowhead plant is propagated using plant division or by stem cuttings. Stem cuttings are the more natural method to propagate the plant. Some of the Arrowhead has aerial roots growing on the stem, so take a cutting from the stem having aerial roots for a high success rate. Steps for planting an Arrowhead plant is:

First of all, make soil mix, 60%gardening soil, 20% fine sand, and 20% vermicompost.
Take a pot and fill it with potting mix.
With the help of scissors or cutter, cut the stem of the plant.
In the pot, plant the cutting and water it.
After 10 to 15 days, you will see the growth of the plant having well-developed roots.

How to grow Arrowhead Plant in the water?

Growing Arrowhead Plant in water — Growing Arrowhead Plant in Water

First of all, cut one leaf with its root, but remove excess one.
Take a transparent glass full of water and add some pebbles and chips at the bottom of the glass.
Add the cuttings to sea, and keep it in the right light area.
After some days, you will see growth in the plant.

Here is a video on how to propagate the Arrowhead Plant in water.

How to care for an Arrowhead plant?

You should care for the Arrowhead plant properly. Some of the tips to care for the Arrowhead plan are listed below:

Avoid direct sunlight for this houseplant.
Moisture is required, but watering the plant frequently leads to root rot, so you should allow the plant to dry out in between watering it.
The temperature of 60 ºF to 80 ºF needs to be maintained all year. Heat below 50 ºF can kill the plant.
This plant prefers high humidity.
Fertilize the plant every two weeks in the summer and spring.
Arrowhead plant grows well in acidic, fertile soil having pH 5.5 to 7.
Avoid leaf scorching if you are growing the arrowhead plant outdoors.

Possible side effects of Arrowhead plant

It causes skin irritation when in contact for a long time, so wear gardening gloves while handling the Arrowhead plant.
Arrowhead vine is toxic to cats and dogs.
It may cause hemorrhoids and diarrhea.

Where can I buy Arrowhead Plant?

You can find this amazing plant for sale in your local nurseries as well as contact your local florist too.

Flowering maple

Updated: May 21, 2020 Leave a Comment

What is Flowering Maple?

Flowering maple plant, also known as Abutilon, is a large evergreen perennials flowering plant in the mallow family. This plant has over 200 species found in the tropics and subtropics of the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australia. It is also renowned as Indian mellow, velvetleaf, room maple, and parlor maple.

The plant of this genus includes herbs, shrubs, and trees whose height ranges from about 0.5 m to 3 m (1.5 feet to 10 feet). They are upright, branching plants often with brittle stems that is why; they are a great addition to annual or mixed beds or borders.

The herbs are generally woolly or bristly, leaf blades are usually entire, and flowers are solitary, paired, or borne in small inflorescences towards the branch tips. The calyx is bell-shaped with five lobes, and the corolla is usually bell-shaped to wheel-shaped with five petals at the bases.

The flowers of wild species are most often yellow or orange, and sometimes red or pink with dark center while the fruit is rounded hemispherical dry fruit with 20 segments, each containing a few seeds.

How to grow Flowering Maple from cutting?

Flowering maple is a type of warm plant that grows in tropical or sub-tropical climates, and it is suitable for growing in USDA zones 8 or 9 and above. To grow this plant, you need well-drained, rich, and moist soil with full sunlight, but a location in partial shades is excellent. You need to maintain 12 to 15 inches distance between the plants and fertilize the soil before planting for better growth of the plant.

So cut the stem about 6 inches, remove the leaves and flowers if it has any.
Mix the soil with some compost and water but do not overwater in a small container.
Use rooting powder, on the bottom of the stem.
Use a scoop and plant the stem. Allow a few weeks to root the stem.
After a few weeks, you will be able to see some buds in the stem.
Now transfer the rooted stem to a bigger container or pot.
Congratulations! You have a new pot of flowering maple.

This plant works well in a hanging basket too where it is easier to see the download facing flowers. For that, you can hang the plant growth pattern by pinching back each stem tip every time. Also, if you want to create a vertical tree-like structure, allow only one main stem to remain, and remove all side shoots from it, until it reaches the desired height.

How to care Flowering Maple?

A flowering maple requires moderate water in the summer so that the soil is consistently moist for outdoor plantation while for indoor plantation; you can water the plant until the soil feels slightly damp and allow the soil to dry out. You need to remember that you should water the plant at its roots and not overhead to avoid diseases. Feed your plant monthly when it begins showing signs of new growth, as too much humidity is not good for this plant.

Flowering maple should be shifted to a new pot when it becomes necessary, but only into a slightly larger pot unless you want to increase the size of your plant. When your plant has reached a suitable size, you can control the growth by pinching, pruning into the desired shape, and keeping it slightly root-bound. Pruning is done in early spring or late fall to maintain the shape and size of the shrub, and pinch off the spent flowers throughout the blooming period to encourage more blooms.

It is susceptible to a few pests, such as oleander scale, soft scale, whiteflies, and Fuller rose beetle, among these whiteflies and scales, leads to sooty mold on, causes yellowing, and leaf death. A common disease for this plant is the abutilon mosaic virus that damages foliage, causes spots, distortion, discoloration, and even rarely harms the wooden parts of the plant.

Where can I buy a Flowering Maple Plant?

YOu can get these plants on nurseries near your location or contact local florists too. You can also find flowering maple plants for sale at stores like Amazon and Etsy.