Consulta Plantas

Care of the indoor plant Ardisia crenata or Coral Berry

The genus Ardisia, subfamily Myrsinoideae, comprises 400 species of trees and shrubs native to Asia. Some species are: Ardisia crenata, Ardisia crispa, Ardisia martinensis, Ardisia mangillo, Ardisia obovata, Ardisia revoluta.

Common names: Coral Berry, Christmas berry, Australian holly, Coral ardisia, Coral bush, Coralberry tree. This species is native to East Asia.

They are very slow growing shrubs that reach 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) high. They have narrow, long leaves with a serrated edge. They produce white flowers in clusters in late summer and then berry-shaped red fruits.

They are used as a potted houseplant. It should be taken outdoors in the summer, but in a shady place.

Ardisia crenata needs an illuminated exposure but without direct sun. The temperature should not drop below 10 ºC (50 ºF); the optimum temperature is 15-25 ºC (59-77 ºF).

The soil has to be clayey and with a lot of peat. In case of transplant, it is better to do it in autumn or spring.

In summer, water abundantly and even spray the leaves from time to time. The rest of the year, moderate the risks a little. They do not tolerate drought.

Prune intensively in spring to reinforce growth.

Fertilize every 15 days with mineral fertilizer from spring to mid-summer.

They are not usually attacked by pests and diseases. Sometimes they are affected by a bacteria that causes "pimples" on the leaves, but it is not contagious nor does it harm the plant.

They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings in summer.

Images of the indoor plant Ardisia crenata or Coral Berry