Callisia Navicularis
Contents
Description
Callisia Navicularis is also known as “Chain Plant” or “String of Nickels.” It is a low-growing, trailing plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. The leaves are round and slightly cupped, with a silvery-green color that is slightly iridescent. The stems are thin and wiry, and they grow up to one foot in length. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer months. Callisia Navicularis is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Callisia |
Appearance
The leaves of Callisia Navicularis are round and slightly cupped, with a silvery-green color that is slightly iridescent. The stems are thin and wiry, and they grow up to one foot in length. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer months. The plant is a low-growing, trailing plant that can be grown in a hanging basket or as ground cover. The plant is easy to propagate, and it can quickly fill a pot or hanging basket with its trailing stems.
Care Guide
Callisia Navicularis is a very easy plant to care for. It prefers bright, indirect light, but it can also tolerate low light conditions. The plant should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. It prefers well-draining soil, and it should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. The plant can be grown in a hanging basket or as ground cover. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, and it can be grown as a houseplant in other zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Callisia Navicularis is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and not kept too wet.
Habitat
Callisia Navicularis is native to Mexico and Central America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Callisia Navicularis be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Callisia Navicularis can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: How often should Callisia Navicularis be fertilized?
A: Callisia Navicularis should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the best soil for Callisia Navicularis?
A: Callisia Navicularis prefers well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Callisia Navicularis be watered?
A: Callisia Navicularis should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Callisia Fragrans
- Callisia Repens
- Tradescantia Zebrina
- Tradescantia Pallida
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/string-of-nickels/growing-chain-plants.htm
- https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/callisia-navicularis.html
- https://www.thespruce.com/callisia-navicularis-care-5079915
