Stromanthe sanguinea
Stromanthe sanguinea is a plant species native to the Brazilian rainforest in the family Marantaceae. [1]
| Stromanthe sanguinea | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Clade: | Commelinids |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Stromanthe |
| Species: | S. sanguinea |
| Binomial name | |
| Stromanthe sanguinea | |
Synopsis
It is a common houseplant in temperate climates for its striking variegated leaves and purple underside of its leaves. It can grow outside in a humid tropical climate, but needs light shade in the afternoon and must be protected from high winds. [2] The soil should be kept moist at all times, but never waterlogged as they are susceptible to root rot.[3] The distinctive variegation is lost when the plant is under full shade as the leaves become solid green.
Hummingbirds and bees are the main pollinators.
Under ideal growing conditions, the Stromanthe will reach between 4-6 feet tall in about a year after emerging from its rhizome. [1] Propagation can be from either seeds or rhizome division, but it is fastest and more reliable to take rhizome cuttings.
Gallery
Stromanthe sanguinea Botanischer Garten TU Dresden, April 2009
Stromanthe sanguinea Botanischer Garten TU Dresden
Else Kientzler Botanical Garden, Sarchi Norte, Costa Rica
Behnke Nurseries, Beltsville, MD USA
Durban Botanic Gardens, Durban