Aluminium Plant Elatostema repens var. pulchrum
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Elatostema is a striking variety characterized by its appealing foliage with intricate patterns and variations in color. Its leaves, which are one of its most distinctive features, typically exhibit deep green hues that may be mottled or veined with lighter shades. The leaves are often soft to the touch and may have a slightly succulent texture, giving them a lush and vibrant appearance. This variety of Elatostema often forms a ground-covering mat with its sprawling stems. These stems may bear small and often inconspicuous flowers, which can be interesting upon close inspection but are generally not the main attraction of the plant. The flowers may vary in color, but typically blend in with the foliage. Overall, the appearance of the Elatostema is one of delicate beauty with a touch of the exotic, making it a favorite for those seeking to add a touch of visual interest to their garden or indoor plant collection. Its attractive leaves can provide a lush backdrop or a stunning accent to other plants in a mixed planting arrangement.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Urticaceae
Synonyms
Pulchrum Elatostema
Common names
Elatostema pulchrum, Pellionia repens var. pulchra.
ToxicityTo humans
Elatostema repens does not have a widely recognized common name and specific information on its toxicity to humans is scarce or not well documented in mainstream databases. This could imply that it is not commonly known to be toxic, but without specific toxicological information, it is always prudent to avoid ingesting parts of any unknown plants. In the absence of data, I cannot provide symptoms of poisoning or consequences of ingestion. If one suspects poisoning, medical attention should be sought immediately.
To pets
Similar to the information available for humans, there is also a lack of specific data on the toxicity of Elatostema repens to pets. Without well-documented evidence, it is not possible to provide a detailed account of symptoms or consequences of ingestion in pets. It's always safest to prevent pets from ingesting unknown plants and to consult with a veterinarian if there are concerns or symptoms of possible poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
1 feet (30 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Elatostema repens var. pulchrum, commonly known as Chinese watermelon, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and homes with its unique foliage and growth habit.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Shade Tolerance: The Chinese watermelon plant is well-adapted to low light conditions, making it ideal for shaded areas in the garden or indoors.
- Ground Cover: Its spreading nature makes it effective for covering bare spots in the landscape, thus reducing soil erosion.
- Humidity Tolerance: It is capable of thriving in humid environments, which can be beneficial in creating a microclimate or growing in terrariums.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Elatostema repens, commonly known as Raindrop Plant, can be used in terrariums due to its small size and high humidity tolerance, creating a mini rainforest ecosystem.
- The plant can be used as a living mulch in gardens, providing ground cover that retains soil moisture and suppresses weeds.
- In educational settings, it can serve as a specimen for botanical studies due to its distinctive foliage and growth habits.
- The Raindrop Plant can be used in vivariums, especially for amphibians that thrive in humid environments, as it can simulate their natural habitat.
- Its unique texture and appearance make it suitable for artistic installations and living walls, adding a touch of greenery to urban spaces.
- Enthusiasts of miniature gardening can incorporate Elatostema repens in fairy gardens due to its small and manageable size.
- As a natural indicator of humidity, the Raindrop Plant can be used to visually signify the need for water in enclosed environments.
- The plant can be used in photography and film as a prop to create a lush, tropical atmosphere or convey a sense of wilderness.
- For culinary presentation, the leaves of Elatostema repens can be used to adorn plates or as a natural bed for serving appetizers, although the plant is not edible.
- The distinctive patterns of the Raindrop Plant make it suitable for use in fashion design, inspiring prints and textures for eco-conscious apparel.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Elatostema repens var. pulchrum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Elatostema repens var. pulchrum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Elatostema repens var. pulchrum, commonly known as the Chinese Rain Bell, is known to thrive in various environments, symbolizing the ability to adapt and persist through challenges.
- Growth: As a plant that can spread across the floors of woodlands, it represents steady growth and the progression of life's journey.
- Healing: In certain cultures, this plant is used for its medicinal properties, symbolizing healing and the recovery process.
WaterFor Flame Violet, it's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Water the plant thoroughly once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which might be about once a week, though this can vary based on the humidity and temperature of your environment. When you water, add enough so that it runs through the drainage holes, which could be around 16-24 onzes each time depending on the size of the pot. During the winter months, reduce the frequency but never let the soil dry out completely. It's better to water Flame Violet with room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
LightFlame Violet thrives in bright, indirect light away from direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves. A north-facing or east-facing window is an ideal spot for this plant, providing it with the gentle light it prefers. Too little light can lead to leggy plants and poor leaf coloration, whereas too much can damage its foliage.
TemperatureFlame Violet prefers temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with a minimum temperature tolerance of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below this range or to drafts and sudden temperature changes, as it can cause stress. Keep your Flame Violet away from heating and cooling vents to ensure it enjoys consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
PruningFlame Violet benefits from pruning to maintain a bushy and full appearance. Trim back leggy growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer, which aligns with the plant's active growth phase. Extra care should be taken not to damage the main stem when pruning, as this could cause unnecessary stress to the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Chinese Raindrop (Elatostema repens var. pulchrum) should be rich, well-draining, and moisture-retentive. A mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark works well. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging between 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingThe Chinese Raindrop (Elatostema repens var. pulchrum) should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time to repot for optimal growth and health.
Humidity & MistingThe Chinese Raindrop (Elatostema repens var. pulchrum) thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% and 80%. This tropical plant prefers a consistently humid environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Chinese Raindrop in moist soil, bright indirect light.
Outdoor
Grow Chinese Raindrop in shade, protect from direct sun.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleElatostema repens var. pulchrum, commonly known as Beautiful Creeping Pellionella, begins its life as a seed, which upon finding suitable moist and shaded conditions, germinates to form a small seedling. As it grows, it develops a creeping stem that roots at the nodes, forming a dense ground cover. The plant then matures and produces inconspicuous flowers, often unisexual, with male and female flowers typically appearing on separate plants. After pollination, which may involve wind or insects, the female flowers develop into small achenes which contain the seeds. These seeds are then dispersed by water, animals, or human activity, continuing the cycle. Whether by seed or vegetative propagation through stem cuttings, the plant continues to spread and colonize new areas within its growth range.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Elatostema repens var. pulchrum, commonly known as Trailing Watermelon Begonia, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The ideal time to propagate is during the growing season, which typically ranges from spring to early autumn. To propagate, a healthy stem cutting, about 4 to 6 inches long (approximately 10 to 15 cm), is taken from the mother plant. It should include at least one node, which is the point on the stem where leaves are attached. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cutting is placed in a moist potting mix or water to root. It's important to provide a warm and humid environment for the cuttings, avoiding direct sunlight until roots have established, which generally takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the new plants can be potted individually and will continue to grow, eventually trailing or spreading in their new containers.
