Pigeon Berry
rivina humilis
Also known as: ["Coral Berry","Bloodberry","Rivina"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant native to the Americas, known for its bright red berries and delicate foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Phytolaccaceae |
| Genus: | Rivina |
| Botanical Name: | Rivina humilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or as a container plant in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
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
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C)
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead growth, shape the plant, dispose of clippings
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting the foliage. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use diluted fertilizer, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume the berries of Rivina humilis. The saponins in the berries can lead to mild digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Rivina humilis can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of saponins. Symptoms are typically mild and self-limiting.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicRivina humilis, commonly known as pigeonberry or rougeplant, contains saponins which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The berries are the most toxic part of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rivina humilis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Pigeon Berry attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its berries and flowers.
Q: How often should I water Rivina humilis?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Phytolaccaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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