Care of the plant Iresine or Bloodleaf |
The genus Iresine, family Amaranthaceae, comprises 25 species of perennials and subshrubs native to tropical regions of the American continent. Some species are: Iresine herbstii, Iresine lindenii, Iresine diffusa, Iresine grandiflora. Common names: Bloodleaf, Herbst's bloodleaf. They are erect plants that reach 90 cm (35.43") in height. The attractive oval leaves come in a wide variety of colors: purple, pink, yellow or green. They produce tiny white or green flowers that are of no ornamental interest. Bloodleaf is used to form clumps and clumps of color in the garden and in pots for terraces and patios. Iresine needs a semi-shade exposure and annual average temperatures of 15-25 ºC (59-77 ºF). It does not resist frost. The ideal soil should contain abundant organic matter and have good drainage; Iresine can grow in a normal, well-drained commercial substrate. Planting is done at the end of winter. The transplant is done at the beginning of summer. Water moderately in winter; the rest of the year water enough so that the substrate is slightly damp. Fertilize with manure in autumn and with mineral fertilizer in spring and summer every 30 days. Herbst's bloodleaf does not need pruning but the flowers should be removed to favor the growth of the leaves. Iresine is a quite resistant plant to pests and diseases. Bloodleaf propagates easily from cuttings in spring. |
Images of the plant Iresine or Bloodleaf |