Spreading Boerhavia, Red Spiderling
boerhavia repens
Also known as: ["Red Spiderling","Spreading Boerhavia"]
Overview
A sprawling, herbaceous plant with small, pinkish-white flowers and reddish stems, often found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus: | Boerhavia |
| Botanical Name: | Boerhavia repens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: 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 the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in arid regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter for nutrients; check for compaction.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions; ideal range 70–90°F (21–32°C); sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to prevent nutrient lockout; adjust based on plant response.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 75–85°F (24–29°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically 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; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; clean up debris.
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
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid watering before cold nights.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced flowering; potential for heat stress in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase humidity; water deeply and more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBoerhavia repens is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBoerhavia repens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBoerhavia repens is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in some cultures for its potential medicinal properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Boerhavia repens toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How fast does Boerhavia repens grow?
A: It is a fast-growing plant, spreading quickly in favorable conditions.
Q: Can Boerhavia repens be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in tropical and subtropical climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nyctaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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