Chamaedaphne calyculata aka Leatherleaf

Taxonomy

Genus Chamaedaphne Family Ericaceae Order Ericales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Chamaedaphne calyculata, also known as leatherleaf or cassandra, is a unique perennial dwarf shrub belonging to the Ericaceae family. It is the sole species in the Chamaedaphne genus and is typically found thriving in cold, acidic bogs, where it forms expansive and spreading colonies. This remarkable plant boasts arching stems adorned with tough, glossy, dark green leaves. During the spring season, small, hanging, urn-shaped flowers in a delicate white hue emerge from leafy sprays at the tips of its branches. While leatherleaf is a super rare houseplant, it surprisingly proves to be an easy-to-grow specimen, requiring regular watering for optimal growth. To ensure its thriving, it is recommended to provide this unique plant with long-lasting, direct light, ideally placing it within one foot of a window.

Common names

Leatherleaf, Cassandra, Dwarf Cassandra

How to care for Leatherleaf

Difficulty

Caring for Leatherleaf is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Leatherleaf should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Leatherleaf prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Region of origin

Leatherleaf’s native range is Europe, Asia, N. America.

More info:
Wikipedia

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