Tricolor stromanthe - Stromanthe thalia (Care, Characteristics, Culture, Images)

Tricolor stromanthe

The tricolor stromanthe is a popular houseplant, known for its bright green and red or yellow leaves. It is easy to care for and can grow in different environments, but is native to warm, tropical areas including Mexico and South America. In contrast to many popular houseplants, tricolor stromanthe is not toxic to pets.

Scientific classification

Species

Tricolor stromanthe (Stromanthe thalia)

Gingers, bananas, and allies

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Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Red, Orange

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Tricolor stromanthe

Distribution of Tricolor stromanthe

Distribution Map

Tricolor stromanthe is a plant species primarily native to the central part of South America. In its natural habitat, it thrives in tropical climates. Furthermore, tricolor stromanthe has been introduced and cultivated in regions of the Pacific, hinting at its adaptability to other warm areas. While cultivated beyond its native range, it is not typically reported as invasive or overly widespread in introduced regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shaded patio and flower gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Tricolor stromanthe is a popular ornamental houseplant since it can't grow in cooler temperatures and will burn in direct sunlight. You can grow it outdoors in shady parts of tropical flower gardens, in garden beds, or borders underneath shady trees. The decorative evergreen leaves act as attractive accents to showy flowers and keep gardens decorated even in the winter.

Interesting Facts

A member of the prayer plant family, this plant will fold up its leaves at night, allowing you full view of its colorful undersides. This behavior is called nyctinasty and is shared by all prayer plants. One theory is that the movements of the plant follow the sun to catch as much light as possible.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Tricolor stromanthe, including the following common varieties :

Triostar Stromanthe

Care Guide for Tricolor stromanthe

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Tricolor stromanthe thrives in high humidity and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Maintain a weekly watering schedule to mimic natural conditions. Typically grown indoors, tricolor stromanthe requires consistent moisture during the growing season to preserve its vibrant foliage.

Fertilize: Tricolor stromanthe benefits from fertilizing every 4 weeks in spring-summer with half-strength high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer to enhance foliage. In fall-winter, reduce to every 6-8 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn and flush soil to avoid salt buildup. Ensure the plant is not dry before fertilizing.

Pruning: Tricolor stromanthe thrives with early spring pruning to encourage growth. Remove faded leaves at the base and avoid heavy pruning. Use sharp, clean tools to minimize infection risk. Regular pest and disease checks enhance plant health and vitality.

Propagation: The optimal propagation season for tricolor stromanthe is Spring and Autumn using division. It has a moderate difficulty level, with success indicated by vigorous new growth. Newly divided plants should be kept well-watered and protected from direct sunlight initially.

Repotting: Spring is perfect for repotting tricolor stromanthe every 3-4 years in a pot 1-2 inches larger. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Post-repotting, place tricolor stromanthe in indirect sunlight and maintain consistent moisture for optimal recovery and growth.

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Images of Tricolor stromanthe

Distribution of Tricolor stromanthe

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for Tricolor stromanthe

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