Wavy-leaf plant
hemigraphis repanda
Also known as: ["Hemigraphis alternans","Hemigraphis colorata"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping plant with striking, wavy-edged leaves that often display shades of purple, green, and silver.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Hemigraphis |
| Botanical Name: | Hemigraphis repanda |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid bathroom or kitchen, or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat or coco coir for moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control shape.
- 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; adjust to lower light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or sheer curtains; avoid direct sunlight, especially in hot months.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; keep away from south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant sit in water; use room temperature water.
Soil
moist, well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for tropical plants; avoid heavy garden soil; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding extremes below 60°F or above 80°F.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain stable room temperature; monitor with a thermometer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting with at least one node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or soil.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks in water; 4–6 weeks in soil.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water every few days if using water propagation; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips 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 appearance and vigor.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune in early morning; remove dead or damaged growth first; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh soil to replenish nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh, well-draining soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch is dry; ensure pot has drainage holes; discard excess water from saucer.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting leaves 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 sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in cold; wilting or brown leaf edges in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if needed; avoid cold drafts from windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and increased water loss, stressing the plant.
Solution: Increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister; provide shade during peak sun hours; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a 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-toxicHemigraphis repanda is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHemigraphis repanda is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHemigraphis repanda is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Hemigraphis repanda?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the plant does not sit in water to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Hemigraphis repanda need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers partial shade or indirect light and can tolerate low-light conditions.
Q: Can Hemigraphis repanda be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown outdoors in shaded, humid environments, but it is primarily cultivated as an indoor plant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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