Free Stromanthe Sanguinea Plants

An elegant plant with very attractive leaves. The green uppersides, with their distinctive herringbone pattern, contrast well with the reddish purple undersides, and the plant’s height and habit of growth permit both sides to be seen with ease. An uninteresting flower spike is produced in spring or summer and can be removed ifit is not wanted. Similar in its care requirements to S. amabilis, this plant prefers a high humidity and is therefore best grown in association with other plants. It is rather too large for a terrarium or other enclosed space but suits a trough or planter very well. The bold foliage provides a useful foil for smaller, more delicate foliage and flowering plants. When positioning this plant, avoid locations that might be draughty, as this can cause leaf loss.

Plant type : Foliage plant with semi-upright habit
Season of interest : All year round
Size : 40-50cm (16—20in)
Flower : Uninteresting spike, produced in spring/summer
Leaf : Pointed oval, 15-40cm (6—16in) long, 7.5-12.5cm (3—5in) wide, shiny, light green with darker green herringbone pattern above, reddish purple below
Temperature : 18-21°C (65 — 70°F)
Aspect/Light : Moderate to light shade
Humidity : High
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer; keep a little drier in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every two to four weeks with houseplant fertilizer at half strength in spring and summer
Propagation : Divide mature plants and plant in seed and cutting compost at 21°C (70°F) in mid to late spring
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Red spider mite, mealy bug, dry atmosphere causes leaf browning
Availability : Reasonably commonly available throughout year
Uses indoors : Trough or planter; prefers draught-free, humid position; can be grouped effectively with other plants