Red Devil Astelia Astelia 'Red Devil'
ABOUT
Astelia 'Red Devil' is an ornamental plant known for its striking foliage. The plant has arching, sword-like leaves that have a unique coloration, blending green with hues of reddish-bronze, giving it a shimmering appearance—hence the 'Red Devil' name. The leaves' texture is slightly metallic and leathery, adding to its visual interest. The foliage often has a silvery sheen on the underside, which contrasts beautifully with the reddish tones. This plant does not typically flower prolifically, with its visual appeal primarily coming from its lush, colorful leaves. The overall shape of Astelia 'Red Devil' is generally clumping, creating a dense mound of foliage that radiates outwards, giving it a full and robust look. Its striking color and form make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of drama to their plantings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteliaceae
Synonyms
Red Devil Astelia
Common names
Astelia 'Red Devil'
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited specific information available regarding the toxicity of Astelia 'Red Devil' to humans. Traditionally, Astelia species are not known for being highly toxic to people. However, as with many plants, it is advisable to avoid ingesting parts of the Astelia 'Red Devil', as it may cause mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. There is no widespread documentation of severe poisoning from ingesting Astelia 'Red Devil', but it's always best to err on the side of caution and keep it out of reach of children who might be tempted to chew on its leaves.
To pets
Information on the toxicity of Astelia 'Red Devil' to pets such as dogs and cats is not well-documented. Astelia plants are generally not known to be toxic to pets, but that does not guarantee that the 'Red Devil' variety is entirely safe. Ingesting the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, similar to many ornamental plants that are not part of their natural diet. If a pet were to consume a large amount of the plant, it might experience symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. It's wise to monitor pets around houseplants and discourage them from chewing on plants to prevent any potential adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Red
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Astelia 'Red Devil' is known for its striking reddish-bronze foliage that adds a splash of color to garden landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for arid or drought-prone areas.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care, which is beneficial for gardeners looking for plants that do not require extensive upkeep.
- Cold Resistance: This plant can tolerate cooler temperatures, making it a viable option for gardens in temperate climates.
- Deer Resistance: It is generally resistant to deer, which can help prevent it from being eaten in areas where deer are a common problem.
- Versatility: Astelia 'Red Devil' can be used in various garden settings, including borders, containers, and as an accent plant.
- Erosion Control: Its root system can help stabilize the soil, making it useful for planting on slopes or in erosion-prone areas.
- Evergreen: As an evergreen plant, it provides year-round interest and structure to gardens, even in winter.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Astelia 'Red Devil' can be used in container gardens to add a splash of color and texture due to its striking red and bronze foliage.
- This plant can serve as a focal point in floral arrangements, particularly in autumn due to its seasonal color changes.
- In garden beds, 'Red Devil' functions as an effective ground cover, suppressing weeds with its dense foliage.
- Astelia 'Red Devil' can be planted along coastal areas as it is tolerant to salt spray, making it an ideal choice for seaside gardens.
- It can be used in xeriscaping, which is a landscaping style that requires minimal irrigation, due to its drought-resistant nature.
- Red Devil is sometimes utilized in garden art installations, where its unique texture and color can contribute to the visual aesthetic.
- The foliage of 'Red Devil' can be used in dried flower crafts, maintaining its shape and color when dried properly.
- It may be incorporated in green roofing projects, as it can withstand challenging growing conditions with minimal care requirements.
- Red Devil can be used as a natural barrier or border in outdoor spaces, providing structure to garden design.
- In theme gardens, such as those emphasizing color or New Zealand native plants, 'Red Devil' is a suitable addition due to its origin and vibrant appearance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Astelia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Astelia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Astelia 'Red Devil', like many plants with tough, evergreen foliage, symbolizes the ability to endure and thrive in challenging conditions, much like how it tolerates various soil types and climates.
- Adaptability: The plant's versatility in landscaping, growing in sun or part shade, symbolizes flexibility and the capacity to adapt to changing environments.
- Protection: This plant can be used as ground cover, offering protection to the soil underneath, which in turn symbolizes shelter and safeguarding what's valuable.
- Visual Interest: With its striking red and bronze-colored leaves, the Astelia 'Red Devil' adds a unique aesthetic to gardens, symbolizing beauty, uniqueness, and artistic expression.
WaterSilver Spear should be watered regularly to maintain a consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water it thoroughly, allowing the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again, which typically means providing water about once a week. The amount needed will vary depending on the size of the plant and the environment, but as a guide, aim for about half a gallon for a medium-sized pot every 7 to 10 days. Adjust the watering frequency during hotter, drier seasons, increasing it as needed, and reduce it during the cooler, dormant months to prevent root rot.
LightSilver Spear thrives in a spot that provides bright, indirect light. It can handle a few hours of direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but too much harsh sunlight can damage its leaves. Ideally, place it near an east or west-facing window where it can receive plenty of light without being exposed to the intense midday sun.
TemperatureSilver Spear prefers temperatures between 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for most indoor environments. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent cold damage. The ideal temperature range to promote healthy growth is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningSilver Spear generally requires minimal pruning. Prune to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to encourage bushier growth. The best time for pruning is during the spring or early summer, just before new growth begins. Pruning once a year is usually sufficient to maintain its shape and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Silver Spear prefers a well-draining soil mix with peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand, aiming for a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingSilver Spear should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound in its current pot.
Humidity & MistingSilver Spear thrives at a moderate humidity level, ideally between 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Silver Spear in bright, indirect light indoors and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Silver Spear in partial shade outdoors with shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Astelia 'Red Devil', commonly known as Astelia, begins its life as a seed which, under suitable conditions of moisture and temperature, will germinate to produce a small seedling. The seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of the first roots and shoots as the plant begins to take up nutrients and photosynthesize. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, developing a clump of long, arching, bronze-red leaves that can add an ornamental value to gardens. During its reproductive stage, the Astelia may produce inconspicuous greenish flowers, if conditions are conducive, followed by berries which attract birds and help in seed dispersal. Once mature, Astelia 'Red Devil' can live for several years and will continue to grow in size, producing new leaves from the center of the clump while the older leaves die off at the outer edges. Finally, after completing its life cycle, the plant will eventually senesce and die, leaving seeds which may germinate to start the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Astelia 'Red Devil', commonly known for its striking sword-shaped burgundy leaves, is typically propagated through division, which is also the most popular method. This process is best performed in the spring when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot or the ground and gently separate the root mass into two or more sections, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the root system and several shoots. Afterwards, immediately repot or replant these divisions into appropriate potting soil, and water thoroughly. Ensure that the divided plants are placed in conditions similar to the parent plant's, with partial shade and well-drained soil. It will take some time for the divisions to establish and start growing vigorously, so providing adequate water and protection from extreme weather is key during the initial phase after propagation.
