Contents
Description
Callisia Fragrans, commonly known as the Fragrant Inch Plant or creeping inch plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Central and South America. This plant belongs to the Commelinaceae family and is widely grown for its ornamental value. The plant produces small, fragrant white flowers that bloom in clusters and emit a sweet scent that attracts pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Callisia |
Appearance
The Fragrant Inch Plant has long, trailing stems that can grow up to 2-3 feet in length. The leaves are small, ovate, and shiny green in color, with a pointed tip and a distinct white midvein. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant produces small, round, black fruits that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Callisia Fragrans is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Callisia Fragrans is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent pest infestations, keep the plant clean and free from debris. If you notice any signs of pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also vulnerable to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and maintaining good air circulation.
Habitat
Callisia Fragrans is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical rainforests and other moist, shaded areas. The plant is commonly grown as a houseplant in many parts of the world due to its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Callisia Fragrans?
A: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Q: Can Callisia Fragrans grow in direct sunlight?
A: No, the plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Callisia Fragrans?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer and apply it once a month during the growing season.
Q: How can I prevent pest infestations on my Callisia Fragrans?
A: Keep the plant clean and free from debris. If you notice any signs of pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the same family as Callisia Fragrans:- Tradescantia pallida (Purple Heart)- Tradescantia zebrina (Wandering Jew)- Commelina communis (Asiatic Dayflower)
References
– “Callisia fragrans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278369.- “Callisia fragrans.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 25 June 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/callisia-fragrans.html.- “Fragrant Inch Plant (Callisia fragrans).” Houseplant Central. Accessed 25 June 2021. https://houseplantcentral.com/callisia-fragrans-fragrant-inch-plant/.
