Callisia
callisia fragrans
Also known as: ["Callisia fragrans","Callisia"]
Overview
A trailing plant with fragrant, lance-shaped leaves, often grown as a houseplant for its ornamental foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Callisia |
| Botanical Name: | Callisia fragrans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 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, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems, keep medium moist, provide warmth, avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems, dead leaves, and encourage bushier growth; maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut at the right angle, remove dead/damaged parts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents congestion.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water sparingly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain fully; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf curling.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration despite adequate watering due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, 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 spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Callisia fragrans may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The plant is not highly toxic, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent any adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Callisia fragrans by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but caution is advised to prevent accidental ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCallisia fragrans contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Callisia fragrans?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Callisia fragrans flower indoors?
A: Yes, it produces small, fragrant white or pink flowers under the right conditions.
Q: Is Callisia fragrans toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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