Scarlet Spiderling
boerhavia coccinea
Also known as: ["Indian Pink","Red Boerhavia"]
Overview
A sprawling, herbaceous plant with bright red flowers and succulent-like stems, native to North America.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus: | Boerhavia |
| Botanical Name: | Boerhavia coccinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open garden beds or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH annually.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in heat but can tolerate mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; use a thermometer to monitor conditions; group plants to create microclimates.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged stems, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allow excess water to drain freely, water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, provide frost protection, reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or leaf drop in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water deeply and mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBoerhavia coccinea is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBoerhavia coccinea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBoerhavia coccinea is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no documented toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with its consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Boerhavia coccinea invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and spreading habit.
Q: Does this plant require much water?
A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its bright red flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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