Iresine Herbstii (Blood Leaf)

• Native to South America, particularly Brazil, where it grows as a tender perennial in warm, humid tropical conditions.
• Features stunning burgundy-red leaves with bright pink or magenta veining that intensifies in good light conditions.
• Grows as a low, spreading plant reaching 30-60cm tall with a bushy, mounding habit perfect for mass planting or edging.
• Popular for its year-round foliage colour that outshines many flowering plants without the need for blooms.
• Easy to propagate from stem cuttings which root readily in water or moist soil, making it economical to expand your display.

• Water regularly during warmer months, allowing the top few centimetres of soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter.
• Position in bright indirect light or filtered morning sun to maintain intense leaf colour; protect from hot afternoon sun in Australian summers.
• Plant in well-draining potting mix enriched with compost or use quality indoor plant mix for containers.
• Apply liquid fertiliser every 3-4 weeks during spring and summer when actively growing; withhold feeding in winter.
• Pinch back stem tips every few weeks to promote bushy growth and remove any leggy or faded stems at the base.
• Maintain humidity around plants by grouping with other plants, misting, or using humidity trays in dry indoor environments.
• Protect from frost and cold winds; bring potted plants indoors or move to sheltered positions when temperatures drop below 10°C.
• Refresh tired plants by cutting back by half in early spring to encourage fresh, vibrant new growth.

• Provide bright indirect light or morning sun for best colour; too much direct afternoon sun may scorch leaves while shade causes colour to fade.
• Water when the top 2-3cm of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging during active growth periods.
• Pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushy, compact growth and prevent plants becoming leggy or sparse.
• Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser to promote lush, vibrant foliage.
• Reduce watering and feeding during cooler months when growth naturally slows.
• Maintain humidity around indoor plants by misting regularly or placing on pebble trays to prevent leaf edge browning.

• Aphids and mealybugs can cluster on new growth and leaf undersides; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, repeating weekly until cleared.
• Overwatering causes root rot and yellowing leaves; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings and containers have drainage holes.
• Leggy growth and pale leaves indicate insufficient light; move to a brighter position to maintain vibrant colour and compact form.
• Spider mites may appear in dry conditions causing stippled leaves; increase humidity and spray with water or miticide if severe.