Friday, November 6, 2009

Neon Nephthytis


I've owned this Neon Nephthytis for several  years now. My living conversation piece is stunningly pink!  Unlike the green-leaf members of it's family, it prefers a fair amount of direct sun. It's such an interesting study in the effect of light on plants. The shades of pink in its leaves will vary quite a bit, depending on how much direct sun it gets. Without some direct sun its leaves will appear much greener. So interesting!

These native Central and South American Nephthytis species are botanically called Syngonium podophyllum. They are amongst the easiest of houseplants to grow indoors. I would definitely recommend one for a beginner.

Care Instructions--
  • Preferably some direct sun. Full afternoon sun may be too strong.
  • Water when the top of the soil is good and dry or up to 1/2" ( about a couple of cm)  below the surface in larger pots, and then give it a thorough soak. The plant pictured here is in a 10" (25cm) diameter pot and should accept about a quart (almost a liter) of water when ready.  
  • Fertilize regularly.
  • It can be pruned or cut back from time to time to keep the plant looking full.  The cuttings will easily root in water. 
  • They can even be grown in water but do add a little water mixed with fertilizer occasionally. The water in the container should be dumped out and refreshed every couple of weeks or so. 
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***To see a variety of  video clips on houseplant care from my 90's TV series, now on YouTube, click below:
 
©2009
 

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