Iresine herbstii

Origin: Brazil

Height: Up to 2 ft (60 cm) when grown in a pot indoors

Light: Bright light is necessary to prevent the bright leaf color from fading. Shade the plant from the hot, direct summer sun. It thrives under indoor grow lights. Leggy plants aren’t getting enough light.

Water: Water thoroughly, aiming to keep the potting mix lightly moist at all times. Empty drainage tray to prevent soggy soil, which can lead to root rot. Water less in winter, when growth has slowed. Older plants are drought-tolerant.

Humidity: Try to maintain 50% relative humidity or higher. Use a humidity tray or room humidifier to raise the moisture in the air around it.

Temperature: Average to warm room temperatures 65-80°F/18-27°C. Don’t expose Iresine to temps below 55°F/13°C. This tender perennial prefers to stay warm, as we do.

Soil: Any good-quality, all-purpose potting mix.

Fertilizer: Feed every 2 weeks spring through fall with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer. Don’t feed in winter when growth is slower.

Propagation: Take 3-4 in (8-10 cm) soft stem tip cuttings in early spring and root them in moist perlite. The root easily.