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Description
Callisia Ornata, also known as the Pink Lady or the Striped Inch Plant, is a trailing houseplant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage.The plant features elongated, lanceolate leaves that are light green in color and have pink stripes running along the length of the leaf. It produces small, white flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Callisia |
Appearance
Callisia Ornata is a small, trailing plant that typically reaches a height of six to eight inches and can spread up to two feet. Its leaves are elongated, lanceolate, and have pink stripes running along the length of the leaf. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer months.
Care Guide
To care for Callisia Ornata, it is essential to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and temperature.Water: The plant prefers consistently moist soil, but it should never be waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Callisia Ornata is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap.The plant can also be susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil and that it is not overwatered.
Habitat
Callisia Ornata is native to Mexico and Central America and can be found growing in tropical forests, near streams, and in other moist habitats. The plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant and is commonly grown as a houseplant in many parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Callisia Ornata a pet-friendly plant?A: Callisia Ornata is not toxic to pets, but it can cause digestive upset if ingested in large amounts.Q: Can Callisia Ornata be grown outdoors?A: Callisia Ornata is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11 and can be grown outdoors in a warm, humid environment.Q: How often should I fertilize Callisia Ornata?A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.Q: How often should I water Callisia Ornata?A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Related Plants
Here are a few related plants to Callisia Ornata:
- Tradescantia Pallida
- Tradescantia Zebrina
- Tradescantia Fluminensis
References
- “Callisia Ornata Pink Lady” by The Plant List. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.theplantlist.org/tpl/record/kew-224947.
- “Callisia Ornata Care” by Smart Garden Guide. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://smartgardenguide.com/callisia-ornata-care-pink-lady-plant/.
- “Callisia Ornata: How to Grow and Care for Pink Lady Plant” by Epic Gardening. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.epicgardening.com/callisia-ornata/.
