Oldham Chloranthus Chloranthus oldhamii
ABOUT
Chloranthus oldhamii, commonly known as Oldham's Chloranthus, is a plant notable for its distinct appearance. This plant typically bears a lush green color and has a somewhat bushy growth habit, meaning it grows outward in a somewhat dense, shrub-like manner. The leaves of Oldham's Chloranthus are elongated, have a smooth texture, and may have slightly serrated or wavy edges, providing a somewhat delicate look despite their robust arrangement. Oldham's Chloranthus is also known for its unique flowers. The flowers are typically arranged in spikes, meaning that they grow along the length of a stem in a somewhat linear fashion. These blooms are often small and may vary in color, but they are generally subtle in their display. The overall floral arrangement gives the plant an elegant and structured appearance. Flower spikes can add a distinctive visual contrast to the softer, more rounded foliage. As the seasons change, so too may the appearance of Oldham's Chloranthus, with colors sometimes turning to different hues that can add visual interest to the plant throughout the year. All these attributes contribute to the ornamental value of Oldham's Chloranthus, making it a potentially attractive addition to gardens or landscapes where its appearance can be fully appreciated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Chloranthaceae
Synonyms
Oldham's Chloranthus
Common names
Asystasia gangetica subsp. micrantha, Asystasia coromandeliana, Asystasia parvula, Asystasia scandens, Ruellia zeylanica, Justicia gangetica, Justicia micrantha
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion control: Chloranthus oldhamii can help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion due to its rooting system.
- Habitat provision: Offers habitat and food for wildlife, such as insects and birds that rely on native plant species.
- Aesthetic value: Adds natural beauty to gardens and landscapes with its unique foliage and flower structures.
- Biodiversity support: Contributes to the biodiversity of an area by being a part of a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals.
- Pollinator attraction: Flowers of Chloranthus oldhamii can attract pollinators, which is vital for the pollination of many plants.
- Cultural significance: May have cultural or historical value in certain regions where it is part of traditional gardens or landscapes.
- Educational interest: Can be used as an educational tool to teach about plant biology and the importance of plant diversity.
- Low maintenance: Often requires less care and resources compared to non-native ornamental plants when grown in its native habitat.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Chloranthus oldhamii may possess compounds that help to reduce inflammation.
- Antitumor: Some studies suggest the plant may contain elements that have antitumor activities.
- Antimicrobial: The plant is sometimes used for its potential antimicrobial properties which can help against bacteria and fungi.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Chloranthus oldhamii, or simply Chloranthus, can be employed as an ornamental plant in gardens, due to its delicate flowers and pleasing appearance.
- The fragrance of Chloranthus flowers has been used in perfumery, as the scent can be captured and added to fragrance blends.
- The stems of Chloranthus can be woven into small decorative items or used as part of floral arrangements to add a unique texture and style.
- In some cultural practices, the plant is associated with specific traditions or rituals, where it may be displayed or exchanged during certain festivals.
- The leaves of Chloranthus may be infused to create a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a subtle green hue.
- Chloranthus leaves are sometimes used in crafting, pressed into paper or mixed into paper pulp to add botanical elements to the finished product.
- The woody stems of mature Chloranthus plants can be used as a lightweight natural material for crafting small items such as whistles or simple toys.
- Dried Chloranthus can be included in potpourri mixes to contribute to the overall aromatic profile and add a pleasant fragrance to a room.
- In some regions, Chloranthus is considered a symbol of good luck and may be kept in homes or given as gifts with the intention of bringing positive energy.
- Chloranthus can be a source of food for certain butterfly larvae, making the plant a beneficial addition to butterfly gardens to support local biodiversity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChloranthus oldhamii is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityChloranthus oldhamii is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience - Chloranthus oldhamii, often known as Goldfish Plant, typically symbolizes resilience as it can thrive in challenging conditions with minimal care.
- Bright Outlook - The bright and attractive flowers of the Goldfish Plant are associated with a positive and bright outlook on life, reflecting optimism and happiness.
- Innovation - With its unique flower shape that resembles a goldfish, this plant is often linked to creativity and innovation, representing unconventional thinking.
- Lushness - The lush green foliage of the Goldfish Plant represents growth and abundance, suggesting a sense of fullness and richness in life.
- Charm - Often gifted to bring charm into someone's home or life, the Goldfish Plant is associated with enchantment and beauty.
WaterThe plant commonly known as spike moss should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry, which typically means watering once a week. Depending on the environment and pot size, you might need to adjust frequency; in hot, dry climates, it might require more frequent watering. One should provide approximately 16 to 32 ounces of water for a potted spike moss every week, ensuring not to let the plant sit in standing water as this can lead to root rot.
LightSpike moss thrives best in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. It should be placed near a window that receives filtered sunlight, as direct sun can scorch its leaves. A north or east-facing window is often ideal for providing the gentle light that spike moss prefers.
TemperatureSpike moss prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, making it suitable for most indoor environments. It can survive minimal dips in temperature down to about 50°F but should be protected from anything colder. Warmer conditions above 80°F might stress the plant, so it's best to avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sun that could raise the temperature excessively.
PruningPruning spike moss is beneficial for maintaining a compact growth habit and encouraging bushier, fuller plants. It should be pruned in the spring, just before the onset of the growing season, to remove any dead or yellowing fronds. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season to shape the plant or control its size, using sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGoldthread Spikemoss thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A soil mix consisting of peat, pine bark, and coarse sand or perlite in equal parts can create an ideal growing environment for this plant.
RepottingGoldthread Spikemoss should generally be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish soil nutrients and accommodate root growth, ensuring the plant's continued health and vigor.
Humidity & MistingGoldthread Spikemoss prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%. Maintaining a consistently humid environment will help the plant thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity for Goldthread Spikemoss.
Outdoor
Plant in shaded area with moist soil; protect from strong sunlight.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleChloranthus oldhamii, more commonly known as Oldham's chloranthus, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in a suitable environment, often moist and shaded woodland soil. Upon sprouting, it progresses to a seedling stage where it develops its first true leaves and begins photosynthesis. As it matures into a vegetative stage, the plant grows in height and its root system expands, while it produces more leaves and potentially branching stems. This perennial herb then reaches reproductive maturity, producing distinctively arranged white flowers that attract pollinators and subsequently develop into fruit containing seeds. After pollination and seed set, the fruits release seeds into the surrounding environment, completing the cycle. Throughout its life, Chloranthus oldhamii enters a period of dormancy during unfavorable seasons, resuming growth when conditions become favorable again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for Chloranthus oldhamii, commonly known as Oldham's Chloranthus, is through seed sowing. This is typically done in the spring, when the threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. To propagate by seeds, one would scatter the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly press them into the soil, as they need light to germinate. The pot or seeding tray should be kept under indirect sunlight with a consistent temperature, and the soil should remain moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take several weeks, and once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
