Scientific Name Radermachera sinica (Radermacher's plant from China)
Common Name China Doll Plant, Serpent Tree, Emerald Tree Plant
Origin Native to Southern China and Taiwan
Description This plant is often grown as a houseplant due to the shine of its glossy, emerald leaves. Looking like a miniature tree, it brings a piece of the woodland into your home. In the wild, it grows in mountainous areas of Southern China and Taiwan, so think of the mountain environment in the subtropics when caring for this plant. Give it a spot with bright, indirect light and water regularly when the top layer of soil dries out, and it will reward you with beautiful, glossy leaves and vibrant foliage. Light Bright, indirect light is best for the China Doll Plant; it can stand a couple of hours of morning or evening sun, but no more than that. Ensure it is kept moist in a brighter location. Water Reliably moist soil is a recipe for success here; allow the top third of the soil to dry out between waters, and reduce slightly in autumn and winter. If it gets some sun, make sure to water more frequently; in indirect light, it will need less.
Humidity Average room humidity is ideal for this plant; they are tolerant of dry air, just make sure they aren't too close to a radiator which would dry them out.
Soil Choose a well-draining but moisture-retentive mix for this plant; one designed for Calatheas or Marantas will work well. Repot every two 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 Temperatures of about 15-32°C are great- make sure it doesn't drop below 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!
Sprouts Top Tips One common issue is the yellowing and loss of foliage due to infrequent or inconsistent watering. If you cannot water more frequently, introducing a pebble tray will increase the humidity and therefore ensure the soil dries out more slowly.
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.