Hemigraphis alternata

This Hemigraphis enjoys bright but filtered light to grow happily. Some direct early morning eastern or late afternoon western sun will enhance the colour of the leaves. Avoid direct sunlight, especially midday, which can burn the thin leaves. Your plant will adapt to lower light but growth will slow down and be spindly and pale. Use a fast-draining medium and water generously during the active growing period – from spring to early autumn - to keep the plant evenly moist. It is important that you use a porous soil that does not compact because susceptibility to rot is high and chronic over-watering will inevitably kill your plant. A warm location with average to high temperatures – 15.5ºC (60ºF) and above - is ideal. Keep your plant away from cold drafts and drying winds; do not expose to temperatures below 13ºC (55ºF).

Propagation is by stem cuttings taken in late spring or summer. Start by taking 3- to 4-inch cuttings from the green (still soft, not woody) part of the plant. Strip off any leaves on the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cutting into rooting hormone, if you so choose. Stick the cutting into a pot filled with vermiculite. Make sure the pot has excellent drainage.