This plant's foliage fans out from central stems in a bushy, striking shape- and each leaf does look a bit like a sticking-out tongue, only much greener and with lovely silver variegation! Give your plant bright, indirect light and only allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waters, and you'll be rewarded with more of this gorgeous, dense foliage.
Scientific Name Schismatoglottis wallichii (split-mouthpiece plant, Wallich's species)
Common Name Drop Tongue Plant
Origin Native to the rainforest floors of Southeast Asia Light Bright, indirect light is best- this plant is used to having leaf canopy between it and the tropical sun! Water This plant likes to be moist but not soggy; let the top layer of soil dry out between waters.
Humidity This plant appreciates high humidity so will benefit from a pebble tray or regular misting to help stop its leaves drying out!
Soil A soil mix that drains well but retains moisture will work well here. One with added coir and perlite, or a mix designed for Calatheas or Marantas, will be just right! Repot every couple of years as the plant grows.
Food Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter. Temperature Average household temperatures of about 18-24°C are perfect- ensure it doesn't consistently drop below 15°C in winter.
Pet-safe No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips Watch out for overwatering with this plant; early signs are yellowing lower leaves. If its leaves are drooping and wilting, and the soil feels dry, you may be underwatering! If it's growing pale and leggy (i.e. lots of stem between leaves), it's probably getting too much light.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.