Callisia repens aka Turtle Vine
Taxonomy
Callisia repens, also known as creeping inchplant or turtle vine, is a small succulent creeping plant native to the tropical climate of Central and South America. Its waxy bright green, pink, or cream leaves are oval with pink or purple stripes and can grow up to 4 cm (1.6 in) long, while the small white flowers with no odour appear in clusters late in spring and early summer. Its dark-coloured capsules contain the small seeds. This popular houseplant thrives in abundant sunlight and needs well-draining soil, regular watering, and occasionally repotting when it has doubled its size. It is generally non-toxic, although not safe for consumption, and should be kept out of reach of children, cats, or dogs.
Common names
Turtle Vine, Pink Panther, Creeping Inchplant, Pink LadyHow to care for Turtle Vine
Difficulty
Turtle Vine requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Turtle Vine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Turtle Vine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Turtle Vine to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Turtle Vine is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
The Turtle Vine is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Turtle Vine should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Turtle Vine’s native range is Southern United States to South America.
Flower
If you provide your Turtle Vine with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
