Description:
It doesn’t take much effort to give these lush green and purple jungle-dwellers what they need to thrive in your home! Also known as red ivy or red flame ivy, these plants have a metallic tint and a crinkly look to their leaves, similar to a waffle texture.
Botanical Classification: Hemigraphis alternata
Pets And Kids:
Non-toxic to pets.
Plant Parent Care Tips:
- Keep waffle plants soil consistently moist. Mist regularly.
- Purple waffle plants sometimes develop minor cosmetic issues. The most common issue is spindly or dead, damaged growth. Prune off the unwanted stems at the base.
- If you prefer a bushier plant, pinch the tips of your waffle plant whenever the plant shoots up new growth. Pinch the stems just above a leaf, stem or bud.
General Care:
Water:
Waffle plants like to stay consistently moist but not soggy. Soil should have the consistency of a wrung out sponge. Mist regularly. Don’t be alarmed if you find it completely limp and wilted when it is thirsty. With a good drink, it will perk back up.
Sunlight:
Bright, indirect light or partial shade. If leaves begin to look bleached out, they may be receiving too much light. With too little light, the purple colouring will fade.
Placement:
Its small stature makes purple waffle plants an ideal house plant for decorating bedside tables, countertops, and desks.
Food:
Fertilize quarterly using half-strength liquid fertilizer while watering.
Common Issues:
Sudden leggy growth: Symptom of over-fertilization
Washed out leaf colour: Can be a symptom of too much sun, or not enough sun.
Interesting Fact
Waffle plants will tell you when they need a drink. You might find your waffle completely limp and wilted, but don’t fret! With a good watering, it will perk back up!