Coral Beads
nertera granadensis
Also known as: ["Berry Moss","Dewdrop Plant"]
Overview
A delicate, trailing plant with small, round leaves and bright orange berries that resemble beads.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Nertera |
| Botanical Name: | Nertera granadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, cool room or shaded outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic potting mix with peat moss, perlite, and a small amount of compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; protect from direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; ensure good drainage; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Acidic, pH 5.5–6.5.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent indoor temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- 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 (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh potting mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting the leaves directly to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water 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 peat moss for acidity; use a balanced organic amendment for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds failing to open.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume the berries of Nertera granadensis. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but ingestion should be prevented to avoid discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nertera granadensis berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but consumption may cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNertera granadensis, commonly known as the coral bead plant, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The berries are the primary toxic parts, and while not highly poisonous, they can lead to discomfort in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Nertera granadensis?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or insufficient light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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