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Description
Codonanthe Gracilis, also known as the String of Nickels, is a member of the Gesneriaceae family. It is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and easy care requirements. The plant is native to Brazil and can be found growing on the forest floor under the shade of larger plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Codonanthe |
Appearance
The Codonanthe Gracilis is a trailing plant with small, round leaves that are about the size of a nickel. The leaves are green with a silver stripe down the center and slightly hairy to the touch. The plant produces small, white, tubular flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The stems of the plant are thin and delicate, making it an ideal plant for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant on a shelf.
Care Guide
The Codonanthe Gracilis is an easy plant to care for and is ideal for beginners. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Codonanthe Gracilis prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or the leaves may burn.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant thrives in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Codonanthe Gracilis is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent pests, keep the plant clean and free of dust. If pests do appear, use a mild insecticide or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so be sure to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Habitat
The Codonanthe Gracilis is native to the rainforests of Brazil, where it grows on the forest floor under the shade of larger plants. It is an epiphytic plant, meaning it can grow on other plants without harming them.
Question and Answer
- Q: How often should I fertilize my Codonanthe Gracilis?
- A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Q: Can I propagate my Codonanthe Gracilis?
- A: Yes, you can propagate the plant by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil.
- Q: What should I do if my plant gets spider mites?
- A: Use a mild insecticide or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove spider mites.
- Q: Can I grow my Codonanthe Gracilis outdoors?
- A: The plant thrives in hardiness zones 10-12 and can be grown outdoors in these zones.
Related Plants
- Achimenes
- Columnea
- Episcia
- Gloxinia
- Streptocarpus
References
- “Codonanthe Gracilis” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e215
- “Codonanthe Gracilis” The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/codonanthe-gracilis-1902610
- “String of Nickels (Codonanthe Gracilis)” Plant Care Today, https://plantcaretoday.com/string-of-nickels-plant-care.html
