| Description: |
A small plant about four feet (120cm) tall with an upright inflorescence with pink bracts. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in full sunlight coming from the South/East/West |
| Soil Type: |
A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take:
1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime.
Always use a pot with a hole.
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| Watering: |
Drench the soil and let it become moderately dry between waterings. If you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed weekly with a water soluble fertilizer from late spring to early fall. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to scale and spider mites. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Gardening Tips & Care: |
DO NOT PRUNE OR CUT BACK. Mist frequently with warm water (lime free to avoid leaf staining) and remove all dead leaves. Place pebbles or gravel in the drainage dish to hold water and increase the humidity, make sure the pot is sitting on the gravel and not in the water.
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| Air Purifier: |
A remover of formaldehyde from the surrounding atmosphere. |