Iresine Diffusa f. Herbstii 'Rich Redstar' aka 'Bloodleaf' Baby

Light

Put your Alocasia in a spot with bright indirect light.

Water

While Alocasia are rather thirsty, too much water can cause root rot and ultimately lead to the death of your plant. This is why you should never let your Alocasia sit in water (e.g. standing water in the saucer). When the top 3cm of soil are thoroughly dry to the touch, it is safe to water again. 

Please note: Jewel Alocasia as are far less tolerant of constantly wet soil than the other, thinner-leafed Alocasia varieties. Be particularly careful not to overwater them!

Humidity

Alocasia tolerate moderate humidity of around 50%, but they will thrive better and grow faster in higher humidity from 70%+.

Soil

Use our soil-less and well-draining Alocasia potting mix if you want to make your Alocasia truly happy! Alocasias love it airy around the roots, so a loose and ideally soil-less mixture will work wonders.

Toxicity

All Alocasia are toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Light

bright sun at best, but can tolerate low light

Water

sparingly, once per month in winter, once every week and a half in summer

Soil

fast draining potting mix like cactus mix containing sand

Plant toxicity

toxic for humans and animals when ingested.

Light

Medium light but can tolerate low light. Avoid too much direct sun. Dappled sunlight is ideal.  Can withstand 3 hours of direct sunlight.

Water 

Once weekly. Allow potting mix to dry out before watering. Soil about 3,5cm down should be dry to touch. Water more frequently during warmer months and fertilise during growth season.  Generally, the plant will droop to show that it needs more water. Do not overwater or keep the soil wet for too long, as this will encourage root rot. If leaves are yellowing due to overwatering, skip a week or two of watering.

Humidity

Normal to high

Temperature

18°C-30°C. It’s best not to let it go below 15°C.

Toxicity

Toxic for humans and animals when ingested

For more detailed care tips, check out or blog post on Anthurium.

Light

Anthurium thrive in medium to bright indirect light.

Water

Anthurium appreciate consistent watering and do not like to dry out fully. Water your Anthurium when the top 3cm of the soil are thoroughly dry. 

Humidity

While glossy-leafed Anthurium will do well in moderate humidity, Anthurium with velvety leaves generally require higher humidity of at least 70%. Most corrugated Anthurium only thrive from 80%+. 

Soil

Anthurium will do well in a very loose, aerate mix like our Aroid Potting Mix. You can also grow them in soil-less substrates such as sphagnum moss or semi-hydroponics.

Propagation

Anthurium can be propagated by stem cuttings or from seed via pollination. 

Toxicity

All Anthurium are toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

To increase the life span of the plant, remove flowers when the first appear with sharp gardening shears.

Water

must be kept damp

Light

bright indirect light

Humidity

moderate to high

Plant Toxicity

not toxic.

Light

Strong light is essential for healthy cacti. Make sure to give them as much light as possible when growing it inside. If you want to bring your cactus outside during the warmer months, make sure to acclimate it to the stronger light step by step or it might scorch.

Soil

 fast-draining cacti mix ideally containing sand

Temperatures

Desert cacti love warm temperatures during the summer and cooler temperatures in winter. You can grow your cactus outside during the growing season to give it that extra bit of sun and warmth, which will result in faster growth. However, make sure to bring it back inside before the first freezing nights or it might get frost damage.

Water

When your cactus is actively growing during the growing season, water whenever the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure to water thoroughly when you do. During the winter rest period, only water very rarely and if the plant begins to shrivel. The most common mistake with cacti is overwatering, which will cause rot either at the base of or its growing tips.

Toxicity

Not all cacti are toxic for humans and animals when ingested, but some are. Either way, make sure your pets do not get too close to them due to their prickly spines! Care is needed when handling cacti to prevent injuries.

Light

bright indirect light indoors, partial shade outdoors

Water

keep the soil moist, but never soggy wet

Humidity

dry to average

Soil

Not very picky, but should be well-draining

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to animals: Coleus contain an essential oil toxic to cats and dogs, which can cause skin irritations and burns if not diagnosed and treated right away. It is only mildly toxic for humans, causing minor skin irritation from exposure to skin or from ingestion.

Light

Bright, sun to part shade

Water

keep moist

Humidity

above average

Soil

well-draining mix

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight, part shade

Temperature

Best around 23 degrees Celcius, avoid drafts from windows

Water

keep moist but not soggy wet

Humidity

average

Soil

1:1 soil to perlite

Toxicity

This plant is highly toxic to humans and animals when ingested. You should wear gloves whenever cutting or pruning your Dieffenbachia, as its sap might cause skin irritations.

Soil

Lightweight, fast-draining potting mix

Light

bright indirect

Humidity

40%-60%

Repotting

Dischidia like to be pot bound, they need to be repotted very seldom

Toxicity

Dischidia are NOT toxic to humans or animals when ingested.

Soil

Lightweight, fast-draining potting mix

Light

bright indirect

Humidity

40%-60%

Repotting

Dischidia like to be pot bound, they need to be repotted very seldom

Toxicity

Dischidia are NOT toxic to humans or animals when ingested.

Light

Bright indirect light, protect from direct sunlight and drafts. Can tolerate low light but leaves loose their best colour in too much shade.

Water

Keep the soil moist during the growing season but never waterlogged. Reduce watering from fall to winter. Mist often and give it an occasional shower to remove dust.

Humidity

average

Soil

fast-draining, clayey potting mix with a mixture of peat, perlite and bark

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to animals if ingested.

When growing Epiphyllum make sure you keep it in the right potting mix. When mixing your own, start with 60% soil and 40% perlite. You can also add bark, peat or sand. Aim to repot it every 2 to 3 years.

Light

shade to partial shade, no direct sunlight

Water

let it dry out between waterings, drought tolerant

Soil

well draining cactus or orchid potting mix

Toxicity

Epiphyllum is not toxic to humans or animals.

Light

Bright indirect sunlight

Soil

well-draining potting mix like our aroid potting mix

Water

Water when top 3cm of soil is dry, let it dry out between watering

Repotting

Repot your Epipremnum when roots grow out of the pot. The ideal season for repotting is Spring. 

Toxicity

Epipremnum are toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Light

Gesneriads do well right in front of windows that have plenty of bright but indirect light. They don’t like too much direct sun, so experiment and see what locations your plants do best in. You can also use sheer curtains to diffuse any windows that have too much direct sun. 

Water

Gesneriads do not like to dry out completely, so make sure you water them regularly. Use rain or distilled water, not tap water, as these plants are sensitive to the chemicals in treated water (learn more about Hard Water).

Gesneriads do not like their leaves to get wet, because they are covered in small, transparent hair, which makes them so soft. Since it is hard to water it from the top without wetting the delicate, bushy leaves, it is best to bottom-water your Gesneriad. Pour water into a saucer and let your Gesneriad sit in it for 20 minutes. Put your plant back into its spot afterwards, do not let it sit in water for too long. Also, refrain from misting.

Humidity

Gesneriads also like higher humidity but are very tolerant of average indoor conditions. Aiming for 50% humidity would be ideal.

Soil

Gesneriads appreciate a well-draining potting mix ideally containing some sand. They also love to be pot-bound, which helps the plant to bloom.

Fertiliser

Regularly fertilize your indoor gesneriads throughout the active growing season for best growth and flowering.

Toxicity

Good news! Gesneriads are not toxic to dogs, cats or people.

Hoya Care Tips

For more detailed Hoya care tips please go here.

Watering

Be sure to water your Hoya thoroughly, so the entire soil becomes wet. They like to dry out more than most plants, so only water them again once the soil is thoroughly dry. If they do not dry out between waterings, they will rot quite easily.

Soil

Hoyas will appreciate a lightweight and very airy potting mix. A mixture of substrate, perlite and bark, such as it can also be found in our Aroid Potting Mix, will work great for most Hoyas. Epiphytic Hoyas in particular will also do well in spaghnum moss.

Hoyas can also be grown in semi-hydro substrates, such as Leca or PON or our Alocasia Mix, since they are particularly aerate.

Light

The more succulent varieties with fleshy leaves, such as Hoya Kerrii or Hoya Calistophylla, can withstand full sun, so they will do great in a South-facing window or right under a small grow light. Meanwhile, thinner-leaved Hoyas, such as Hoya Linearis or Hoya Krohniana, will appreciate medium to bright indirect light.

Certain Hoya varieties might begin to redden their leaves due to sun stress, such as Hoya Wayetii Tricolor, for instance. This can be beautiful, but  you have to be careful not to overdo it light-wise or it will fully burn the plant and permanently damage the chlorophyll in the leaves in the process.

Humidity

Most Hoyas will do great in moderate humidity of 40-60%. Especially the more thick-leaved Hoya are not too finicky in terms of humidity, but most will thrive and grow faster if given a bit more.

Some of the thinner-leaved varieties might require higher humidity of 60-80% to thrive. They will do especially well in a greenhouse or terrarium environment.

Repotting

Hoyas like to be rootbound, so we recommend that you do not repot your Hoya all too often. Refreshing their substrate every two to three years in order to give them better, nutrient-retaining soil is enough. If they are very rootbound, you can give them a bigger pot when you refresh the substrate.

Flowering

Hoyas won’t flower unless it is given the right care and conditions. Light is the most important factor in getting your Hoya to bloom. It will need a location with bright, indirect light, sheltered from direct sun rays. Fertilising your Hoya regularly may encourage the plant to produce flower buds as well.

Toxicity

Hoyas are NOT toxic to humans or animals when ingested.

Light

Bright indirect light, partial shade

Watering

keep soil moist but not soggy wet

Soil

rich, well draining potting mix

Propagation

herbaceous stem cuttings

Toxicity

Good news, this plant is non-toxic to animals.

More detailed information here.

Light

medium light, part shade

Water

keep evenly moist throughout the year

Potting

wide and shallow container

Soil

Bark (20%) + Sphagnum Moss (50%) + Perlite (30%)

Toxicity

Great news, jewel orchids are NOT toxic to pets or humans.

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight, part shade

Water

keep moist but not soggy wet

Humidity

high

Soil

well-drained but moist, rich organic mix soil.

Plant toxicity

This plant is highly toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Humidity

These plants do need quite a lot of care, and especially a relatively high humidity to stay beautiful in our home, which is why some indoor gardeners do not dare caring for them.

At least 60 percent in winter and 70 to 80 percent during the growing season from March to September are ideal conditions for Calathea. If the humidity in your home is too low, some Calatheas will quickly get brown and dry leaf margins. Also, the risk of them getting spider mites increases with lower humidity and, believe us, Calathea are unfortunately proper spider mite magnets!

Some Calatheas, especially those in the ‘beginner’ category of the list on our blog, retain their beautiful leaves despite drier conditions.

Watering

Calatheas like to be kept moist, but not wet – they don’t like to dry out too much. When they are thirsty, Calatheas show it with curled-up and droopy leaves. That’s when you should give them a good soak at the latest, and they will be back to their former stunning selves within a day.

Important: Calatheas will not tolerate your regular old tap water! Highly sensitive to hard water, these babies require water that is room temperature and soft, so think distilled water, or at the very least well filtered!

Soil

Despite their well earned diva reputation, prayer plants are actually not too picky when it comes to soil. They prefer a relatively well-draining, lightweight potting mix, but not as loose as you would use for your aroids, for example. A mixture of 50% coco coir, 30% perlite and 20% bark would work, or you can add about a quarter of sphagnum moss to three quarters of your go-to aroid mix to make it a bit more moisture retentive.

Light

In their native countries, Calatheas grow as hanging and climbing plants, or ground covers in the rather shady undergrowth of the rainforest. That’s why Calatheas don’t like too much light at home either; their ideal conditions would be a warm, draught-free, semi-shaded location without direct sunlight.

Depending on their pattern, however, certain Calatheas, such as the White Fusion, need more light.
If left too bright, Calatheas like to lower their leaves steeply, and that’s the great thing about this plant species; they may be divas, but they clearly communicate their needs! 

Pests

As mentioned above, spider mites are a Calathea lover’s worst nightmare! These annoying bugs love prayer plants, so it is important to check the underside of their leaves very frequently for white spots that could prove to bespidermite eggs. There are a lot of ways to get rid of them. Our favourite is a solution of Neem oil, water and organic soap (with a teaspoon of pure alcohol if you want to go the extra mile) with which you can gently clean all your Calatheas leaves from both sides and its stems.

Dormancy

Although Calatheas are not known to go dormant, but they do go through phases of growth and demise, which means that they will sometimes start to drop a majority of their leaves. It is a shocking process, but you must not give up on your Calathea then! In a lot of cases, it will come back with a lot of new leaves once it goes into its growth phase again. As long as the rhizomes in the soil are healthy, all you need is patience.

Propagation

Calatheas cannot be propagated through cuttings, unfortunately. The only way to multiply a Calathea is by division, meaning you can simply divide the leaves of one plant including its rhizomes and roots into two and plant them up again. Easy as that!

Toxicity

Calatheas are not poisonous, which means they are pet friendly and not toxic to either cats or dogs, so this is the perfect genus for the patient plant and animal lover!

Light

Marcgravia thrive in medium to bright light, but will produce more extraordinary foliage if it gets a lot of light. 

Water

Marcgravia like to stay moist, but not wet at all times. They do not like water sitting on their leaves for long periods of time, so make sure to always water below the leaves.

Humidity

Marcgravia loves humidity, so it is a great plant for the humid environment of a container garden or terrarium. This plant is not recommended as a houseplant in an open air pot, since it needs at 70%+ humidity to thrive.

Temperature

Marcgravia likes warm temperatures between 22℃ and 28℃

Soil

Very well-draining mix or sphagnum moss

Toxicity

Potentially toxic to pets and humans when ingested.

Light

Monsteras thrive best in bright indirect light. It will tolerate much lower light conditions, but will grow much more slowly if at all. Do not expose your Monstera to direct light or you might risk crispy, burnt leaves.

Water

Monsteras like their soil to stay moist, but never wet. Water when the top half of the soil is dry to the touch.

Most Monsteras will tolerate drying out if you miss a watering, but try not to overdo it or you might cause its roots to shrivel up and rot when watered again. When its leaves look droopy is when you should water your Monstera at the latest, but it is better not to let it get to that point all too often!

Also, do not water your Monstera when the top half of the soil is still moist or you will risk root rot. Always remove excess water from the saucer to avoid the plant sitting in water.

Humidity

Monsteras are tropical plants and will appreciate high humidity. However, they make for such great houseplants because they do not require it to thrive. Moderate humidity 50% will work well for most Monsteras.

Temperature

Monsteras, being tropical plants, prefer temperatures of no lower than 15 and no higher than 30 degrees Celsius. Ideally, they should be grown in usual household temperatures.

Soil

Monsteras love growing in a very well-draining, loose substrate, such as our Aroid Potting Mix, which was developed specifically for plants in the Aroid family.

If you prefer mixing soil yourself, we recommend a mix of 1/3 bark, 1/3 perlite and 1/3 coco coir.

Toxicity

Monsteras are toxic to pets and humans when ingested. Typically, ingestion will cause stomach irritation and potentially vomiting.

Light

Philodendrons thrive in medium to bright indirect light, but will tolerate darker spots as well.

Soil

Use a well-draining potting mix, such as our Aroid Potting Mix, ideally containing some coco coir, bark and perlite. You can also grow Philodendrons in soil-less mixes like sphagnum moss and perlite or hydroponics.

Water

Philodendrons like their soil to dry between waterings. Water when the top 3cm of soil are totally dry to the touch.

Humidity

Most Philodendron, especially the Erubesecens varieties, will thrive in average humidity. However, some of the more tropical and velvety species will require higher humidity to survive.

Toxicity

All Philodendron are toxic to humans and animals if ingested.

Watering

Water regularly, allowing the soil to halfway dry out before watering again.

Light

Would benefit from being in medium diffused light.

Humidity

They like moderate humidity but would tolerate a less humid environment.

Soil

well-draining potting mix, like our in-house mixed aroid mix (buy here)

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to humans and animals when ingested..

Light

Bright indirect light

Watering

When the top 3cm of soil are dry to touch

Soil

Well-draining potting mix like our aroid mix

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to animals and humans when ingested

Light

bright spot, can whit-stand a few hours of sunshine a day

Water

As opposed to most succulents, needs regular (possibly weekly) watering in summer and much less in winter but only when potting mix is dry to touch.

Soil

fast draining potting mix such as cactus mix

Humidity

low

Toxicity

non-toxic to humans nor animals when ingested.

Light

Plenty of sunlight is also recommended for optimal growth, even during the colder months. Avoid direct sunlight because it could scorch your Ruellia's leaves.

Water

when top 3cm of soil are dry, do not let it dry out completely

Humidity

Ruellia appreciates high humidity.

Temperature

Ruellia needs warm temperatures above 6 degrees Celsius, so can be grown outdoors during the growing season as long as the nights are not too cool.

Soil 

Ruellia Makoyana grows best in regular potting soil with good drainage.

Toxicity

Some Ruellia used as medicinal plants, but many are known or suspected to be poisonous, so better be safe than sorry and do not let your pets nibble on your Ruellia!

Light

Dull sun, but tolerates little light.

Water

Sparingly

Humidity

Not picky, low to high

Soil

Fast draining plant soil, like a cactus mixture

Plant Toxicity

Toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Light

Scindapsus thrive best in medium to bright indirect light, but will tolerate much lower light conditions. However, be aware that loo little light might cause the leaves to lose their beautiful variegation. Do not expose your Scindapsus to direct light, which might scorch its leaves.

Water

Water thoroughly when the top half of the soil is dry to the touch. Scindapsus can tolerate underwatering, but are much less tolerant of overwatering, so make sure not to water it too much or it will wilt easily. Always remove excess water from the saucer to avoid the plant sitting in water. If the leaves of your Scindapsus start curling on both sides, you have underwatered your plant.

Humidity

Scindapsus are tropical plants, so they will appreciate high humidity and reward you with more growth. However, they make for such great houseplants because they do not require it to thrive. Moderate humidity of 40-50% is just fine for most Scindapsus.

Temperature

Scindapsus, being tropical plants, prefer temperatures of no lower than 18 and no higher than 28 degrees Celsius. Ideally, they should be grown in usual household temperatures.

Soil

Scindapsus love growing in a very well-draining, loose substrate, such as our Aroid Potting Mix, which was developed specifically for plants in the Aroid family. If you prefer mixing soil yourself, we recommend a mix of 1/3 bark, 1/3 perlite and 1/3 coco coir.

Fertiliser

During the growing season, feed your Scindapsus regularly with a liquid fertiliser suitable for houseplants. Do not fertilise your plant during the colder months unless you supplement with grow lights.

Toxicity

Scindapsus are toxic to pets and humans when ingested.

Light

bright spot, can whit-stand a few hours of sunshine a day

Water

as opposed to most succulents, needs regular (possibly weekly) watering in summer and much less in winter but only when potting mix is dry to touch

Soil

fast draining potting mix such as cactus mix

Humidity

low

Plant toxicity

non-toxic to humans nor animals when ingested.

Position in a bright to full sun location with a moderate to high airflow, tip prune in spring to encourage branching. This plant can be grown outdoors.

Soil

Well draining potting mix

Water

Never allow the juvenile plant to dry out between watering, a mature plant will cope with more sporadic watering.

Humidity

medium

Toxicity

WARNING! Please note this plant is highly toxic if ingested.

Light

Syngonium thrive in bright indirect light, but will tolerate low light environments. However, please note that generally, the more variegation (i.e. coloration on the leaves) your plant has, the more light it will require to survive. Avoid exposing your Syngonium to direct sunlight, which might scorch the leaves,

Water

Wait until at least the top 3-5cm of soil are thoroughly dry before watering your Syngonium again. Then, water thoroughly and empty excess water in the saucer, because sitting in water can cause the plant's roots to rot. In the cooler months, you will not need to water your plant as often as during the growing season.

Humidity

Most Syngonium are not very picky when it comes to humidity and will grow well in moderate humidity of 40%-50%. One exception is Syngonium Rayii, which needs a terrarium environment to survive.

However generally, the more humidity you can provide iyour Syngonium with, the faster it will grow. They will benefit from 60% or higher.

Temperature

Syngonium will grow well if kept in common household temperatures. Do not let temperatures drop below 15 degrees Celsius or rise higher than 30 degrees. Make sure to keep it away from cold drafts from windows during the winter months.

Soil

Being Aroids, Syngonium appreciate a well-draining potting mix such as our Aroid Potting Mix, which was developed specifically for this plant genus. If you prefer mixing soil yourself, a loose mix containing coco coir, pine bark and perlite will be ideal for this plant.

Fertiliser

Fertilise your Syngonium regularly during the growing season. We recommend adding liquid fertiliser at half the recommended dose at least twice a month during the growing season. Only fertilise during the colder months if you supplement lower light conditions with grow lights and the plant is still growing.

Toxicity

Syngonium are TOXIC to humans and animals when ingested.

This plant can be grown outdoors.

Light

does well in full sunlight but will also grow in light shade.

Soil

well-drained potting mix

Water

Adenanthos are very drought-tolerant and low maintenance as it requires very little water

Humidity

low and dry

Toxicity

Adenanthos are NOT toxic! It can cause stomach upset if enough is ingested, but is not reported to be toxic.

Light

full sun

Water

depending on season, every 7-14 days

Soil

well raining potting mix

Humidity

low

Toxicity

This plant is non-toxic to humans or animals when ingested.

Light

The darker green varieties of Aglaonema can grow in near shade, while the variegated varieties require brighter light. Do not expose any Aglaonema to direct sun.

Water

Water thoroughly in the summer and mist the plant often to raise the humidity. During the winter, reduce watering but do not let the plant dry out completely.

Temperature

These plants do not like cold drafts or temperatures below 18 C. Be sure to keep it away from drafty windows or vents and the warmer the spot you can find, the better.

Soil

A well-draining potting soil is perfect, use our Aroid potting mix for best results

Fertilizer

Feed your Aglaonema with slow-release pellets or a liquid fertilizer during the growing season.

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Sunlight

bright to medium indirect light

Water

Allow potting mix to dry out before watering. Soil about 3,5cm down should be dry to touch. Water more frequently during warmer months and fertilise during the growing season. During the dormancy period, almost no watering is required.

Humidity

average

Temperature

18°C-30°C. It’s best not to let it go below 15°C.

Soil

well-draining potting mix, we recommend using our Aroid mix

Toxicity

toxic for humans and animals when ingested.

Light

bright indirect sunlight, can tolerate low light

Soil

well-draining potting mix like our aroid potting mix

Water

water when top 3cm of soil is dry, let it dry out between watering

Repotting

when roots grow out of the pot

Plant toxicity

 toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Light

bright spot with indirect light to shade

Watering

keep moist in summer and let it dry out in winter

Temperature

above 15 degrees

Propagation

leaf cuttings

Soil

Well-draining potting soil with peat moss

Toxicity

Good news! Aphelandra are not toxic to animals.

Light

part to full shade, well lit

Water

often, keep moist but not wet

Humidity

above average

Soil

well draining

Plant toxicity

Asparagus is poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.

 Light

very bright indirect light when grown inside

Water

Water normally in the growing season from March to October, keep dry in winter.

Soil

Use a cactus mix or add extra perlite or pumice to regular soil potting soil.

Toxicity

not toxic

To read more about this genus and for more tips on how to grow them please go here.

Light

bright, indirect light, no direct sunlight

Water

keep the soil moist but not soggy wet

Temperatures

Most Begonia like it warm. Keep them in temperatures between 20 and 27 degrees Celsius. 

Humidity

Most Begonia will do well in moderate humidity. However, especially the tropical species we sell might require very high humidity (75%+) to survive and thrive. If this is the case, it will be mentioned in the product description.

Soil

Keep your Begonia in moisture-retentive, but fast-draining soil. It should be slightly acidic - adding clay, loam or sand can help with that. Especially the more tropical Begonia like soil-less medium such as sphagnum moss.

Toxicity

Begonia are toxic to animals if ingested.

Light

bright indirect light

Water

keep moist but not soggy wet

Soil

well draining potting mix

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to humans and animals if ingested.

Light

bright spot, can whit-stand a few hours of sunshine a day

Water

as opposed to most succulents, needs regular (possibly weekly) watering in summer and much less in winter but only when potting mix is dry to touch

Soil

fast draining potting mix such as cactus mix

Humidity

average

Toxicity

Good news! Ceropegia are not toxic, so animal-friendly

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight, part shade

Water

keep moist but not soggy wet

Humidity

medium to high

Soil

moist but loose and well-drained soil, such as a 50/50 ratio of clayey soil mixed with sand or gravel, or special potting mixes for palm trees

Plant toxicity

Chamaedorea are NOT toxic to animals. Your furry friends will be safe with it!

Light

Cissus need bright indirect or filtered light and warm temperatures to thrive. They will do well in an East- or West-facing window

Temperatures

warm, between temperatures of 21 – 27 Celsius

Water

Water when the top 3cm of the soil are dry. Make sure that you do not let the soil dry out completely between watering. If the soil dries out, Cissus Discolor will quickly wither away.

60% and above is recommended

Soil

Nutrient-rich and well-draining. We recommend a mix of 50% substrate, 10% peat moss and 40% perlite.

Toxicity

This plant is non-toxic, so pet-friendly!

Light: part to full shade, well lit

Water

Often, keep moist but not wet

Humidity

medium

Soil

well draining

Toxicity

Added bonus! Coniogramme emeiensis ‘Golden Zebra’ is not poisonous which means it’s pet friendly (non toxic to cats and dogs).

Light

Cotyledons require a sunny position with as much light as possible. 

Water

extremely drought tolerant, water when soil is dry to the touch

Fertiliser

Feed it once or twice during the growing season with a fertilizer specifically formulated for cactus and succulents (poor in nitrogen).

Soil

very fast draining, ideally containing sand, potting mix suitable for cacti and succulents

Humidity

low

Temperature

This plant is hardy down to -4 degrees Celsius. 

Repotting

Repot in Spring only when roots become cramped. Do not water for a week or more after repotting. Needs a large pot to accommodate a large root system.

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Light

bright indirect light

Water

medium, keep moist but not soggy

Humidity

high

Temperature

This tropical plant likes it warm. Do not let temperatures fall below 18 degrees.

Soil

Grow in well draining potting mix like our aroid potting mix.

Toxicity

toxic for humans and animals when ingested

Light

bright indirect light

Watering

Should stay moist but can tolerate sporadic periods of dryness, water with distilled water only

Humidity

50%

Soil

Can grow well in pretty much any medium

Plant toxicity

Pet friendly, non-toxic although sundews seem to be the ones cats most prefer to shred

Position in a bright to full sun location with a moderate to high airflow, tip prune in spring to encourage branching. This plant can be grown outdoors.

Soil

Well-draining potting mix

Water

Never allow the juvenile plant to dry out between watering, a mature plant will cope with more sporadic watering.

Humidity

medium, not picky

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to consume, unless you're a Koala :-)

Bright morning sun, some air flow, avoid touching the plant.

Light

dull sun but can tolerate low light

Water

sparingly, once per month in winter, once every week and half in summer

Soil

fast-draining potting mix like cactus mix

Plant toxicity

 toxic to humans and animals when ingested.

Light

bright spot, can withstand a few hours of sunshine a day

Water

Regularly in growing period, allow the soil to dry between watering. In winter, water sparingly

Soil

A well draining mix. Ficus prefer being pot-bound, so keep your Ficus in a smaller container than you would usually do.

Humidity

medium

Plant toxicity

toxic to humans and animals when ingested. The plant sap may cause skin irritations.

Light: medium bright indirect light

Water

often, keep moist but not wet

Humidity

medium to high, will do well in a terrarium

Soil

well-draining, slightly acidic

Plant toxicity

As an added bonus, Fittonia are NOT toxic to humans and pets.

Light

medium to bright indirect light, no direct sunlight

Water

keep the potting mix moist, on the wetter side.

Humidity

high

Soil

best of grown in soil-less medium of sphagnum moss and perlite

Toxicity

toxic for humans and animals when ingested

Position in a bright to full sun location with a moderate to high airflow, tip prune in spring to encourage branching. This plant is perfect for your balcony almost all year round, but should be brought inside once the temperatures drop too low, since it does not tolerate frost.

Soil

Well-draining potting mix

Water

Never allow the juvenile plant to dry out between watering, a mature plant will cope with more sporadic watering.

Humidity

medium

Toxicity

Although hibiscus flowers are often used for tea and is not toxic to humans, the leaves are a potentially fatal toxin to cats and dogs. Consuming as little as one leaf may cause life-threatening changes in blood pressure, heart rhythm and respiration, especially in smaller animals like cats.

Light

part to full shade, well lit

Water

often, keep moist but not wet

Humidity

medium

Fertiliser

regular use of high nitrogen fertiliser

Propagation

It can only be grown from spores, not propagated. 

Soil

Well draining, well-draining, airy, epiphytic substrate

Toxicity

Huperzia are toxic to animals when ingested.

Light

Bright morning sun, some air flow, avoid touching the plant. Winter grower.

Growth rate

Slow to moderate

Light

They do need a lot of light to develop their typical compact shape, but different clones vary in their tolerance of full sunshine. However some protection in light shade is recommended during the hottest hours in summer. They can tolerate moderate shade, and a plant that has been growing in shade should be slowly hardened off before placing it in full sun as the plant will be severely scorched if moved too suddenly from shade into sun. If kept too dark they may become overly lush and greener and could be prone to rotting due to over watering.

Water

Water sparingly from March until October so long as the plant pot is allowed to drain and not sit in a tray of water (It rots easily, especially if over wet), and also needs to be avoided wetting the body of this plant while it is in sunlight. Let dry between watering. From July watering should be reduced to force the plant to go into a state of semi dormancy, by September onward the plant will begin to grow and watering should be increased gradually until late November when the plant should be in full growth.

Soil

fast draining potting mix like cactus mix

Fertiliser

Low food needs. Feeding may not be necessary at all if the compost is fresh then, feed in early autumn only if the plant hasn't been repotted recently. Do not feed the plants from September onward as this can cause lush growth which can be fatal during the darker cold months.

Hardiness

When dormant, the plant is slightly cold tolerant (down to nearly -5° C or less), but when left out it is more sensitive to frost. However warmth throughout the year will increase the grower's success (at minimum temperatures from 5 to 15 centigrade degrees during winter). During the summer it is best to keep the plants outside where the temperature can rise to over 30 C with no harm to the plant.

Light

bright indirect light, no direct sunlight

Water

keep the potting mix moist, on the wetter side.

Humidity

terrarium environment, high humidity of around 90%, 

Soil

best of grown in soilless medium of sphagnum moss and perlite

Plant toxicity

Labisia are considered non-toxic for humans or animals.

Light

bright spot, can whit-stand a few hours of sunshine a day

Water

as opposed to most succulents, needs regular (possibly weekly) watering in summer and much less in winter but only when potting mix is dry to touch

Soil

fast draining potting mix such as cactus mix

Humidity

medium to high

Plant toxicity

non toxic to humans nor animals when ingested.

Light

bright indirect light

Soil

well draining potting mix, like our aroid mix

Water

Allow top inch or two of soil to dry before watering to avoid rot

Humidity

medium to high moisture

Light

medium bright

Humidity

average

Water

keep moist during growing season, water sparingly during dormancy

Soil

well-draining potting mix containing bark and perlite

Toxicity

WARNING! This plant is toxic to humans and animals if ingested.

Light

Bright indirect light

Water

Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Allow a couple of cm of the top soil to dry out between waterings, and reduce watering during the winter season

Humidity

Average

Soil 

Nutrient rich, well-draining soil with added bark or perlite to help with the drainage

Toxicity

Good news, this plant is NOT toxic to humans nor animals!

Light

medium to bright indirect light

Water

sparingly, once per month in winter at the most, once every week and half in summer

Humidity

average, around 50-60%

Soil

fast-draining potting mix like cactus mix

Plant toxicity

toxic for humans and animals when ingested.

Light: Pilea likes a lot of light, keep it in a bright indirect light spot.

Watering

The soil needs to mostly dry out between waterings, with more watering required in warmer, sunnier weather. If the leaves start to look slightly droopy, that’s a sign that the plant needs water.

Temperature

It can withstand temperatures as low as 10C, thus if you are lucky to be in a tropic zone, you can even plant these outside all year.

Propagation

This plant is fairly easy to propagate. It is said that even a leaf with a stem can root in the water. A happy plant will eventually send baby plants through the soil, which you can pluck out and seperate from the mother plant. If their roots aren’t well developed,  place it first in a glass of distilled water. If the little plantlets roots are established, simply plant it in the soil.

Soil

Well-draining potting soil, and a pot with drainage holes is necessary.

Toxicity

Good news! Pilea Peperomioides 'Mojito' is not toxic to animals.

Light

bright indirect light

Watering

Should stay moist, water with distilled water only

Humidity

moderate, 50%

Soil

Can grow well in pretty much any medium

Plant toxicity

There is no specific information on the toxicity of this plant.

Sunlight

medium bright indirect light

Water

Keep soil constantly moist

Humidity

high

Temperature

18°C-30°C.

Soil

rich organic well-drained and moist soils

Toxicity

toxic for humans and animals when ingested

Light

shade to partial shade, no direct sunlight

Water

let it dry out between waterings, drought tolerant

Soil

well draining cactus or orchid potting mix

Humidity

medium to high

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and animals when ingested. In humans it is reported that dermal contact of the fresh juice of this plant may cause skin irritations with pruritus and pustules

Light

bright location, can tolerate several hours of sunlight daily.

Water

Unlike many other succulents, it needs regular watering during the warm months, but less during the winter dormancy. We recommend bottom watering, since Senecio does not like its leaves to lie on wet soil. Water when the soil feels dry!

Soil

Loose and well draining mix. We recommend a Cactus mix!

Humidity

moderate

Toxicity

Toxic to pets. In humans it is reported that dermal contact of the fresh juice of this plant may cause skin irritations with pruritus and pustules

Light

Bright, indirect light, no direct sunlight

Water

Keep the soil moist at all times but not soggy wet

Humidity

High, 70%+, best kept in terrarium conditions

Soil

Peat-moss-based, with added leaf mold and coarse sand for good drainage. Will also do well in loose sphagnum moss

Toxicity

Good news: This plant is non-toxic and thus pet-friendly!

Light

bright indirect light, no direct sunlight

Watering

Water when top 3cm of soil are dry to touch, the plant will get droopy when it's dehydrated

Soil

well-draining potting mix, we recommend using our aroid mix

Toxicity

Warning! This plant is toxic for humans and animals if ingested.

Light

bright spot, can whit-stand a few hours of sunshine a day

Water

As opposed to most succulents, needs regular (possibly weekly) watering in summer and much less in winter but only when potting mix is dry to touch

Soil

fast draining potting mix such as cactus mix

Humidity

low

Propagation

In case any leaves fall in transit, please don't throw them away! You can propagate this plant from leaf cuttings.

Plant toxicity

Good news! This plant is non-toxic to humans nor animals when ingested.

Light

full sun

Water

sparingly, once per month in winter, once every week and half in summer

Soil

fast draining potting mix like cactus mix

Plant toxicity

toxic for humans and animals when ingested.

Water

Water Strelitzia sparingly, approximately every 3 weeks in winter, every 1.5 weeks in summer

Light

Very bright, with some direct morning sun.

Humidity

average to high

Plant toxicity

Strelitzia Nicolai can cause slight irritations to animals and humans if ingested.

Light

bright, indirect light

Temperature

This plant likes warm temperatures of no less than 21 degrees Celsius.

Water

Keep the soil moist, but not soggy wet. Do not let the soil dry out.

Humidity

high, at least 70%

Soil

moisture-retentive, rich and slightly acidic

Light

Bright direct or indirect light

Water

Mist 3-4 times a week

Humidity

average

Toxicity

Good news, Tillandsia are NOT toxic to humans or animals when ingested.

Light

bright spot with indirect light to shade

Humidity

slightly above average

Watering

keep moist in summer and let it dry out in winter

Temperature

above 15 degrees

Propagation

stem cuttings

Soil

Well-draining potting soil with peat moss

Plant toxicity

mildly toxic to humans and pets

Pro tip

Pinching back the long vines encourages branching and increases the fullness of the plant. To do this, simply ‘pinch’ off at a joint or at the tender new growth at the end of the stem.

Please note: Being a bulbous plant,  Xanthosoma will go dormant in cold weather and come back in spring. As soon as it has lost all its foliage, stop watering the plant that is now a tuber, dig the bulb up and store it in a cool, dry place during the colder months. Plant it back up in spring and start watering it again, then it will grow new foliage.

Light

Xanthosoma should ideally be grown in a spot with bright indirect sunlight.

Water

Xanthosoma require frequent watering during the growing season, but the soil should never get too soggy, because the tubers might rot. 

Humidity

average to high

Soil

well-draining potting mix, like our aroid mix

Toxicity

This plant is toxic to humans and animals if ingested.

Water

extremely drought tolerant, water when soil is dry to the touch

Soil

very fast draining, ideally containing sand, potting mix suitable for cacti and succulents

Humidity

low

Repotting

Repot in Spring only when roots become cramped. Do not water for a week or more after repotting. Needs a large pot to accommodate a large root system.

Plant toxicity

non-toxic to humans nor animals when ingested.

Light

Bright light is good but not essential. The zamioculcas zamiifolia grows fine with low levels of light, but it's best to avoid direct sunlight.

Watering

Allow the soil to become dry at the top to the touch between watering and do not over water. It's best to water this plant less than too much because over-watering can cause stem and rhizome rot.

Soil

Most well draining potting mixes will suffice that contains a high amount of perlite or sand within the mix (you can add more perlite or sand if needed to a mix that is bought). Good drainage holes at the bottom of the pot is essential.

Fertilizer

During the main growing season (April - August) feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer which is diluted, once a month.

Humidity

Average house humidity is advised but increase humidity if the artificial heating within the home or workplace is quite dry.

Propagation

You may propagate by dividing rhizomes or with leaf cuttings. Place the leaf cuttings in a pot with a plastic covering and then the wait for roots to begin growing, which could take up to a year.

Plant toxicity

This plant is toxic to animals and humans when ingested.