Grow this tropical plant with vibrant foliage in your yard or as a houseplant.
Bloodleaf is a tropical plant that is usually grown as an annual in northern climates.
Its variegated stems and leaves add bold color to garden beds, borders, and containers.
This plant is attractive due to its foliage, not its flowers, which are insignificant and not showy.
Though bloodleaf resembles coleus, this easy-care plant is in the amaranth family and is closely related tocelosia.
Because it prospers in consistent moisture, a rain garden is an ideal location.
It is easy to enjoy Bloodleaf’s display from a distance.
Place the plant in the hole and fill in original soil to the top of the root ball.
Gently tamp down the soil and water it well.
Keep it well watered.
Space plants 1 to 3 feet apart depending on the spreading habit of the variety.
Bloodleaf Care Tips
Bloodleaf is a no-fuss plant that requires little maintenance.
Bloodleaf should be kept evenly moist.
Its dramatic, tropical-looking leaves wilt when the soil dries out too much.
Water it during hot, dry summer weather.
check that to move it back inside once the temperatures drop in the fall.
Because it is a tropical plant, bloodleaf prospers in a humid environment.
If the humidity inside your home is low, mist the plant occasionally or use a humidifier.
Fertilizer
If planted in fertile garden soil, bloodleaf usually requires no fertilization.
Potted plants, on the other hand, benefit from ahigh-nitrogen liquid fertilizer.
For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.
Pruning
Pinch the tips back from time to time to encourage a fuller and bushier growth.
Potted plants need more water than plants in garden soil.
especially in warm weather.
Water regularly to keep it consistently moist.
Bloodleaf will only require repotting if its grown as a perennial or a houseplant.
Because of its relatively fast growth, annual repotting is recommended.
Choose a pot that’s one size larger than its current container and use fresh potting soil.
Pests and Problems
Bloodleaf has no serious insect or disease issues.
The plant is susceptible to powdery mildew.
Potential pests includeaphidsandspider mites.
How to Propagate Bloodleaf
Bloodleaf is easilypropagated from stem cuttings.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Insert the cutting in the pot so that the nodes are buried.
Keep it evenly moist in a warm, humid, bright spot but away from direct sunlight.
Once temperatures drop below 50 degrees F at night, move the young plant indoors for the winter.
It grows 18 to 30 inches tall.
‘Brilliantissima’ Iresine
The purplish-red leaves of this variety have pink, almost neon-colored veins.
The plant reaches 18 to 30 inches in height and spreads 16 to 20 inches.
Blazin Lime Iresine
This variety has lime and cream-colored variegated foliage and vibrant rose stems.
It grows 12 to 16 inches tall and 16 to 20 inches wide.
Just like bloodleaf, zinnia thrives in full sun.
They get roughly 8 to 12 inches tall with a neat growth habit and elegant dark green foliage.
French marigolds do best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil and will flower all summer long.
Gerbera Daisy
Yellowgerbera daisiesare especially attractive when paired with bloodleaf.
Their moderate height between 6 and 18 inches wont overwhelm neighboring plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
The plant is not known to be toxic to humans or pets.
If at all possible, move it outside for the summer.
