Care of the indoor plant Stromanthe sanguinea or Stromanthe |
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The genus Stromanthe, family Marantaceae, includes 20 species of herbaceous plants native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Some species are: Stromanthe sanguinea, Stromanthe lutea, Stromanthe confusa, Stromanthe jacquinii. Common name: Stromanthe. This species is native to Brazil. They are rhizomatous tropical plants that reach 60 cm (23.6") in height. It has attractive oval-lanceolate leaves, 50 cm (19.68") long and green and cream with a reddish or maroon underside. Indoors they do not usually bloom but if they do, it produces flowers in the shape of red spikes in winter or early spring. They are used as indoor plants in pots that are wider than they are tall. After 3 years of life they lose attractiveness. Stromanthe sanguinea needs a semi-shade exposure; currents of air and direct sun are not suitable for them. The humidity must be high; place a tray with damp stones under the pot. The soil can be a mixture, in equal parts, of bark mulch and peat. The transplant is done in early spring. Water regularly with lime-free water, waiting for the soil surface to dry. Fertilize monthly with mineral fertilizer during spring and summer. They do not need pruning. They can be attacked by mealybugs if the humidity is low. They do not resist sudden changes in temperature. They are propagated by division during the fall. |
Images of the indoor plant Stromanthe sanguinea or Stromanthe |
 Stromanthe sanguinea  Stromanthe sanguinea |