Stromanthe sanguinea is looking at its best at this time of year although it has attractive bold foliage throughout the year.
Stromanthe sanguinea is a strong growing evergreen perennial that slowly spreads by rhizomes (underground stems).
The flowers are small, white and almost hidden beneath bright red-coloured bracts (petal-like leaves), which are borne on taller stems than the foliage, up to about 1.5m.
The leaves are a dark glossy green with a paler midrib on the top and burgundy colouration on the underside.
The oblong to lance-shaped leaves are up to 45cm long and move throughout the day to follow the sun, or avoid it, depending on how bright the sun is.
At night the edges of the leaves fold round towards the midrib, like other members of this family (Marantaceae) and look a bit like praying hands.
If the leaves stay folded during the day it is a sign that the plant is receiving too much light and should be positioned in more shade.
> Native to the rainforests of Brazil found growing in deep moist shady areas with high humidity.
> Needs warm year-round temperatures and is tender below 15degC.
> Needs protection from strong summer sun. Morning and late afternoon sun is fine.
> High humidity and an evenly moist, organic soil with good drainage is recommended for strong healthy plants.
> Dry air, cool temperatures or lack of water will cause the plants leaves to turn brown or drop.
- Stephen Bishop is curator of the Winter Garden glasshouse at Dunedin Botanic Garden.
