Scientific Name Homalomena wallisii (Wallis' flat-moon plant) 'Camouflage'
Common Names Homalomena Camouflage, Queen of Hearts, Shield Plant
Origin Native to Venezuela, Colombia and Panama
Description The thick, waxy and vibrant leaves of this Queen of Hearts live up to their name in the splotched, camouflage-like patterning of their leaves. In your home, however, the bright greens will stand out rather than blending in, and bring tropical South America to your room. Relatively easy to care for, resistant to nasties like bugs and disease and above all beautifully-coloured, this houseplant will make a wonderful addition to your home. Light Thrives in bright, indirect light Water Keep the soil moist, but ensure good drainage and don't allow to sit in water. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and reduce watering in winter.
Humidity This plant likes lots of humidity! A humidity tray of water and pebbles or frequent misting will go down well; if it starts looking brown around the edges, the air may well be too dry for it! Soil Use a soil-based, moisture-retentive mix. Repot every three years in spring as the plant grows.
Food Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter. Temperature Ideal temperature is anywhere between 15-32°C (aim for the middle of this!); make sure it does not drop below 13°C in winter.
Pet-safe No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips Homalomena have shallow root systems so will not suffer in shallower pots!
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.