Follow this Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ Growing Tips & Care Information guide and add this unique and exotic houseplant to your collection.
This delightful plant can add a charming touch to any desk or windowsill, making it a must-have for plant enthusiasts. If you’re looking to add this low-maintenance plant to your collection, our guide on Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ Growing Tips & Care Information is an excellent resource to help you care for your plant and keep it thriving.
Botanical Name: Dischidia hirsuta
USDA Zones: 10-11
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About Dischidia Hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ Plant
Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ is discovered in Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This beautiful plant grows as an epiphyte. It is known for its unique succulent leaves, which are round with pointed tips. The Foliage is thick and fleshy and has a vibrant red color due to a substance called anthocyanin. The surface of the leaves is covered with tiny bumps, adding to its exotic appearance. In the warmer months, the plant produces small yellow to orange flowers, adding a touch of beauty to its vines.
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Propagating Dischidia hirsuta Red Leaf
Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ can be effortlessly propagated using stem cuttings.
- Select a sturdy and healthy plant, then take 4-6 inch cuttings with a clean, sharp knife or shears.
- Allow the cut ends to develop a callous for 6-10 hours before planting in a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the plant in a spot with dappled light all day, water it thoroughly, and roots should form within 2-4 weeks.
Choosing the Ideal Pot for Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’
This plant grows well in small containers. You can start this pretty vine in pots that are 6-8 inches in size and have enough holes for water to drain out. You can also use big glasses, large coffee mugs, or pretty ceramics to showcase this beautiful plant. It can also be grown in vertical wall planters, hanging baskets, or in a corner near your favorite books to add life to the space.
Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ Growing Tips
Sunlight
Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ is well-suited to low-light environments, making it an excellent choice for homes with limited natural light. It is ideally placed in an east or north-facing window, receiving 4-5 hours of indirect sunlight daily. This plant is perfect for planters or hanging baskets in covered patios or porches.
Soil
Use a well-draining growing medium that is rich in organic content. Opt for shredded bark, coco coir, or orchid potting mix instead of regular potting mix, as the epiphytic roots of this unique plant can suffocate and die without proper aeration.
Water
To ensure optimal growth, it is important to maintain a consistently moist but not waterlogged growing medium for Dischidia hirsuta. Misting the plant every 2-4 days can also be beneficial. Water the plant only when the topsoil feels slightly dry to the touch.
Temperature and Humidity
For this exotic plant to thrive, it requires hot and humid conditions. It cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures. A temperature range of 40-80°F or 4-27°C and average household humidity is ideal.
If your home is dry, install a humidifier or use a pebble tray. Growing it in the kitchen or bathroom, which tends to be more humid, is also an option.
Dischidia hirsuta ‘Red Leaf’ Care Information
Fertilizer
If your plant is growing in a nutrient-rich medium, it may not require frequent fertilization. Nonetheless, you can apply a balanced, low-strength fertilizer once at the start of the growing season.
Pruning
Although pruning is not necessary for this attractive plant, You can trim it to maintain its size and shape.
Pests and Diseases
To keep your Dischidia hirsuta healthy, it is important to watch out for common pests such as aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Additionally, make sure to avoid waterlogging the soil, as this can lead to root rot.
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