Callisia repens

Scientific name

Callisia repens

General description

Callisia repens, also called Turtle Vine or Creeping Callisia, is a creeping or trailing plant with small, fleshy round or oval leaves. The foliage is bright green, sometimes slightly pastel in shade depending on the light. It forms decorative carpets or cascades, ideal for hanging baskets or in a pot.

Origin

Native to Central and South America, it grows naturally in humid, partially shaded undergrowth.

Care

• Light : Bright indirect light; tolerates medium light; avoid strong direct sun to avoid burning the leaves.
• Watering : Keep the substrate slightly moist, do not let it dry out completely; avoid water stagnation.
• Humidity : Likes moderate to high ambient humidity.
• Temperature : between ~18-27°C; avoid prolonged cold temperatures or drafts.
• Substrate : light, well-draining mix, rich in organic matter, with perlite or similar elements to prevent compaction.

Special advice

• Prune or pinch regularly to prevent the plant from becoming too spindly and to encourage dense growth.
• Replace the substrate or repot when the plant is too cramped or the soil loses quality.
• Fertilize once a month during the growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
• Plant considered to be slightly toxic; keep out of reach of pets and children to avoid accidental ingestion.