Species bloodleaf

bloodleaf

Iresine rhizomatosa

Bloodleaf (Iresine rhizomatosa) is a vivacious flowering plant characterized by its raguleted foliage. The perennial has velvety, crimson leaves with hues ranging from dull pink to vibrant magenta, appearing almost like veins of blood running through the greenery. Growing up to three feet tall and wide, bloodleaf is drought tolerant and thrives in full and partial sunlight. However, avoid overwatering to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Propagate from stem cuttings to maintain its unique and eye-catching hue.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bloodleaf plants should be watered once or twice weekly. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature and humidity in the environment. In general, water the plants when the top 1-2 inches of potting soil is dry. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy at any given time. During the warmer months, water more frequently, as the plant will use the moisture quicker in the hotter climate. During the cooler months, water less frequently, as the plant won’t use as much as water when it’s cooler.

sunlight

Bloodleaf (Iresine rhizomatosa) prefers bright, indirect light to full sun. If it is grown in a very bright and intense spot, it’s important to make sure it has some filtered light to prevent sunburn. Place it in a sunny windowsill during the spring and summer, and bright indirect light to full sun for at least 4 hours a day is recommended. In winter, the light intensity will naturally decrease so you can use minimal shade as long as it's still getting the adequate daily sun exposure. Give your Bloodleaf plenty of time to adjust to its environment before allowing it to receive full sun.

pruning

Bloodleaf (Iresine rhizomatosa) is a fast-growing, tropical perennial shrub that requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. Prune bloodleaf in the late spring or early summer to trim away any dead or damaged branches, as well as to keep the shape of the plant more compact. Begin by removing any dead or damaged branches back to the main stem or main branch. Next, trim slightly evergreen branches back to shorter lengths in order to shape the plant. Finally, prune off any scraggly growths that detract from the overall shape of the plant. Pruning your bloodleaf is important not only for the overall shape and size of the plant, but also to encourage new growth. Be sure to remove no more than 1-third of the total branches from the plant each pruning session.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Iresine rhizomatosa typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between April and June.

Starts Flowering

Iresine rhizomatosa typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between April and June.

Hardiness Map