| Description: |
A single upright shoot with large lobed leaves at the apex may produce root sprouts to give a dense clump. The leaf surface is powdery, particularly on the underside, and some people prove to be sensitive to this developing a short-lived rash. |
| Environment: |
Suitable only for 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.
|
| Watering: |
Keep the soil barely moist and if you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed every two weeks with a water soluble fertilizer diluted by half. Do not fertilize in the winter. An alternative is a granular slow release fertilizer if applied annually in the early spring. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to mealy bugs. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Suckers
in the winter through spring.
It is best to propagate suckers in a mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band to prevent the moisture from escaping. Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its regular mix after it has been growing for a while.
|
| Gardening Tips & Care: |
Needs to be planted in a large pot.
|