Unknown
callisia gentlei
Also known as: ["Unknown"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Commelinaceae, native to Central America.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Callisia |
| Botanical Name: | Callisia gentlei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if humidity is below 50%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; place near east-facing windows for ideal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C) with protection from extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; trim spent stems to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at an angle; remove dead/damaged growth; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent standing moisture; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a heating mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration in excessive heat without adequate humidity.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
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
Non-toxicCallisia gentlei is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicCallisia gentlei is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicCallisia gentlei is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Callisia gentlei?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Callisia gentlei require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Callisia gentlei toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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