Golden Glory
chrysothemis pulchella
Also known as: ["Golden Glory","Copperleaf"]
Overview
A striking tropical perennial with vibrant, coppery-red foliage and delicate, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus: | Chrysothemis |
| Botanical Name: | Chrysothemis pulchella |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter; mix of peat, perlite, and loam.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; place in a spot with filtered light; move outdoor plants to shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant sit in water; ensure good drainage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that retains moisture but drains well; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring to summer), none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; division of rhizomes is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two leaf nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (70–75°F); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or water propagation for initial rooting.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth; shape the plant to maintain form.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh soil to replenish nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; wilting; reduced growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use shade cloth if outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Chrysothemis pulchella. The plant's effects are generally limited to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chrysothemis pulchella can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's toxic compounds are not highly systemic but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChrysothemis pulchella contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system, with minimal systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Chrysothemis pulchella?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Q: Is Chrysothemis pulchella suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with high humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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