Graptophyllum Pictum

Description

Graptophyllum Pictum, also known as Caricature Plant or Inkweed, is a shrub that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and Australia, and it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking foliage. The plant has large, glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are variegated with green, pink, and cream. It produces small, insignificant flowers that are not its main attraction.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Graptophyllum Pictum is a medium-sized shrub that can reach up to 10 feet in height and 6 feet in width. It has a bushy, rounded habit and produces multiple stems that emerge from the base. The leaves are large, ovate, and glossy, with a length of 6-8 inches and a width of 2-4 inches. They are variegated with green, pink, and cream, and they have a wavy margin. The plant produces small, pink-purple flowers that are not showy and are followed by small, black berries.

Care Guide

Graptophyllum Pictum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it requires some attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Graptophyllum Pictum prefers moist soil, but it should not be overwatered. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Graptophyllum Pictum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate some direct sun.
• Hardiness Zones: Graptophyllum Pictum is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Graptophyllum Pictum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-ventilated and avoid overwatering. If you notice any infestation, treat the plant with a neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Graptophyllum Pictum is native to Southeast Asia and Australia, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers warm and humid conditions and can tolerate some drought.

Question and Answer

Here are some frequently asked questions about Graptophyllum Pictum:

• Q: Is Graptophyllum Pictum a good indoor plant?
• A: Yes, Graptophyllum Pictum can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is not overwatered.
• Q: Can Graptophyllum Pictum be pruned?
• A: Yes, Graptophyllum Pictum can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Prune the plant in the spring or fall, removing any dead or damaged branches.
• Q: Does Graptophyllum Pictum attract wildlife?
• A: The plant produces small, black berries that can attract birds and other wildlife.
• Q: Is Graptophyllum Pictum toxic to pets?
• A: Graptophyllum Pictum is non-toxic to pets and humans.

Related Plants

• Graptophyllum excelsum
• Graptophyllum ilicifolium
• Graptophyllum pictum ‘Chocolate’
• Graptophyllum reticulatum

References

• “Graptophyllum pictum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c346. Accessed 22 Aug. 2021.
• “Graptophyllum pictum.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com/graptophyllum-pictum-caricature-plant. Accessed 22 Aug. 2021.
• “Graptophyllum pictum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/119179/Graptophyllum-pictum/Details. Accessed 22 Aug. 2021.