Contents
Description
Elatostema Involucratum, commonly known as the “shield pennywort,” is a creeping perennial plant that belongs to the nettle family. It is native to Asia and can be found in countries such as China, India, and Indonesia. This plant is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its attractive foliage and easy-to-care nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Urticales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Elatostema |
Appearance
Elatostema Involucratum has small, round, glossy leaves that are bright green in color. The leaves are arranged in a rosette-like formation and can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellow-green in color. This plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and can spread up to 60 cm in width.
Care Guide
Water: This plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Elatostema Involucratum prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil for best results.
Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Elatostema Involucratum is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elatostema Involucratum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and thrips. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and treat accordingly.
Habitat
Elatostema Involucratum is native to Asia and can be found in countries such as China, India, and Indonesia. It grows in moist, shady areas such as forests and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Elatostema Involucratum a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, it is a great indoor plant due to its attractive foliage and easy-care nature.
Q: How often should I water my Elatostema Involucratum plant?
A: Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Elatostema Involucratum tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: How do I propagate Elatostema Involucratum?
A: Propagate the plant through stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Elatostema Arbuscula
- Elatostema Reticulatum
- Elatostema Umbellatum
- Elatostema Lineolatum
References
- “Elatostema Involucratum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a578.
- “Elatostema Involucratum.” Plant Care Today, 22 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/elatostema-involucratum.
- “Elatostema Involucratum.” World of Flowering Plants, 10 Dec. 2020, worldoffloweringplants.com/elatostema-involucratum-shield-pennywort/.
