Callisia fragrans: characteristics, care and curiosity

Belonging to the Commelinaceae family and native to Mexico and other tropical territories both in the North and South America, Callisia Fragrans is a perennial and evergreen plant, its stems are creeping and the branches can rise spontaneously, even if covered by the other leaves. . The latter appear to be waxy and distributed alternately along the branches, enveloping the base up to be arranged sometimes in rosette. The color of the leaves is generally dark green, but may have slightly purple hues, especially if the plant grows under sun exposure. The flowers, small and white, have a pleasant scent that gives the plant its name and generally appear in winter, persisting until spring.

Cultivation methodologies

No great care is needed to cultivate Callisia Fragrans. This plant is suitable for both open and closed environments. Any type of sun exposure is suitable for the cultivation of Callisia Fragrans, clear that in the absence of good light the plant will not be able to bloom.
Perfect in a potted apartment, this plant can also be adapted to the cultivation in open ground where it can spread dramatically. The most common way in which the Callisia Fragrans is cultivated is that with a hanging vase, which leaves its roots free to go down with its stolons. It is no coincidence that this plant is also called “basket plant”. The earth must always be well drained, it is possible to water it according to the needs and the season, scrupulously avoiding any kind of stagnation

Diseases and cures

Callisia Fragrans is much appreciated because it does not require special care, so much chin pruning. The only precaution to be taken is that concerning the dry leaves, which must be promptly eliminated so that the environment suitable for the proliferation of pests is not created. In such cases it is possible to use a simple pesticide to solve the problem.

Curiosity

Not everyone knows that this plant contains very useful plant steroids especially to fight infections and also as a stimulant of the immune system. On the other hand, however, it can also lead to small problems. Care must be taken if you have cats in your home, which could contract dermatitis by coming into contact with the plant.