Callisia Repens Gold, also known as Golden Basket, is a beautiful and easy-to-care for plant that is native to Central and South America. It is a member of the Commelinaceae family and is a popular choice among indoor gardeners due to its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature.
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Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Monocotyledonae |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Callisia |
Appearance
Callisia Repens Gold has striking golden-yellow leaves that form a rosette shape. The leaves are small and oval, measuring approximately 2-3cm in length, with a slightly curled edge. The plant produces runners that can grow up to 50cm in length, which makes it a great choice for hanging baskets or as a ground cover. When grown in bright light, the plant produces small white flowers that resemble those of a spiderwort.
Care Guide
Callisia Repens Gold is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water:
Water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization:
Feed your plant once a month during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Soil:
Plant your Callisia Repens Gold in well-draining soil. A mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand works well. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting in the soil.
Sunlight:
Callisia Repens Gold prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. If the plant is not receiving enough light, the leaves may turn green.
Hardiness Zones:
Callisia Repens Gold is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, it is best to keep the plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Common Pests & Diseases
Callisia Repens Gold is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to pests or disease. However, it may occasionally be infested with spider mites or mealybugs. To prevent this, keep the plant clean and free of debris, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. If you notice any pests, treat them with a mild insecticide.
Habitat
Callisia Repens Gold is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers humid environments and can be found growing along riverbanks and in forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Callisia Repens Gold be grown outdoors?
A: Callisia Repens Gold is hardy in zones 9-11 and can be grown outdoors in these regions. However, it is often grown as a houseplant due to its low-maintenance nature.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Callisia Repens Gold?
A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season (spring to fall). Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Q: Can I propagate Callisia Repens Gold?
A: Yes, Callisia Repens Gold can be propagated through stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from the plant and place it in water or soil until roots develop.
Q: Why are the leaves on my Callisia Repens Gold turning green?
A: Callisia Repens Gold prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If the plant is not receiving enough light, the leaves may turn green. Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage the leaves to return to their golden-yellow color.
Related Plants
- Callisia fragrans
- Callisia elegans
- Tradescantia zebrina
- Tradescantia pallida
References
- “Callisia Repens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d506.
- “Callisia Repens Gold Plant Care – Growing Golden Basket.” Plantophiles, 4 Apr. 2021, plantophiles.com/callisia-repens-gold-plant-care/.
- “Callisia Repens Gold.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/callisia-repens-golden-basket/.
