The Mikado Plant: An Exotic Beauty

Oleh Delores Willms June 09, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for a unique and exotic plant to add to your collection? Look no further than the Mikado Plant! With its striking red stems and delicate green leaves, this plant is sure to make a statement in any space. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Mikado Plant, from its origins to its care requirements.

Origins and Appearance

The Mikado Plant, also known as Selaginella erythropus, is native to tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia. It belongs to the family Selaginellaceae, which consists of over 700 species of spikemosses and lesser clubmosses.

This plant gets its name from its unique appearance, with red stems that resemble the Japanese emperor or "Mikado". The stems grow upright and can reach up to 30cm in height, while the small leaves are a bright green color. As an evergreen plant, it keeps its leaves year-round, making it a great indoor plant option.

Watering Requirements

One of the key things to keep in mind when caring for the Mikado Plant is its watering needs. This plant prefers moist soil, but it's important not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

To keep your Mikado Plant healthy, aim to water it once a week during the growing season (spring and summer), and less frequently during the dormant season (fall and winter). Make sure the top layer of soil is dry before watering, and avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause them to turn brown.

Light Requirements

Another important factor to consider when caring for the Mikado Plant is its light requirements. This plant prefers bright, indirect light, so it's best to place it near a window that doesn't get direct sunlight.

If you notice that the leaves are turning brown or the stems are becoming leggy, it may be a sign that the plant needs more light. On the other hand, if the leaves are turning yellow, it could be a sign of too much sun exposure.

Soil Requirements

The Mikado Plant thrives in soil that is well-draining and rich in nutrients. You can use any standard potting soil for this plant, but make sure to add some perlite or sand to improve drainage.

It's also a good idea to fertilize your Mikado Plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. This will help ensure that it has all the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.

Temperature and Humidity

As a tropical plant, the Mikado Plant prefers warm temperatures and high humidity levels. It does best in temperatures between 18°C and 24°C, so make sure to keep it away from drafts or cold windows.

To increase humidity levels around your Mikado Plant, you can place a humidifier nearby, or simply mist the leaves with water once a day.

Propagation

If you want to expand your collection of Mikado Plants, propagation is the way to go! This plant can be propagated easily through stem cuttings.

To propagate your Mikado Plant, take a stem cutting that is at least 5cm long and has several leaves attached. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, then plant it in moist potting soil. Keep the soil moist and wait for new growth to appear!

Pests and Diseases

Like all plants, the Mikado Plant is susceptible to pests and diseases. Some of the most common issues include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.

To prevent these pests from taking over your plant, make sure to keep it clean and free from dust. You can also treat it with neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.

In terms of diseases, the Mikado Plant may be prone to root rot if overwatered, as well as fungal infections in humid conditions. To prevent these issues, make sure to water your plant properly and provide good air circulation.

Toxicity

If you have pets or small children at home, it's important to note that the Mikado Plant is toxic if ingested. Keep it out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison control center immediately if you suspect that your pet has eaten part of the plant.

Decorating with the Mikado Plant

One of the great things about the Mikado Plant is its unique appearance, which makes it a great addition to any room in your home. Here are some ideas for how to decorate with this exotic beauty:

Display it on a windowsill or shelf to add some greenery to your space.
Use it as a centerpiece for your dining table or living room coffee table.
Pair it with other tropical plants, such as birds of paradise or monstera, for a cohesive look.
Use it as part of a larger plant display, such as a hanging planter or vertical garden.

The Mikado Plant is a unique and beautiful plant that is sure to make a statement in any space. With its striking red stems and delicate green leaves, it's no wonder that this plant has become a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.

To keep your Mikado Plant healthy and thriving, make sure to water it properly, provide it with plenty of bright, indirect light, and keep it in a warm, humid environment. With a little bit of care, your Mikado Plant will continue to thrive for years to come!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is the Mikado Plant easy to care for?

A1. Yes, the Mikado Plant is relatively easy to care for, as long as you provide it with the proper growing conditions. Make sure to water it properly, provide it with bright, indirect light, and keep it in a warm, humid environment.

Q2. How often should I water my Mikado Plant?

A2. The frequency of watering depends on the season, but you should aim to water your Mikado Plant once a week during the growing season (spring and summer), and less frequently during the dormant season (fall and winter).

Q3. Can I propagate my Mikado Plant?

A3. Yes, the Mikado Plant can be propagated easily through stem cuttings. Simply take a stem cutting that is at least 5cm long and has several leaves attached, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in moist potting soil.

Q4. What kind of soil does the Mikado Plant prefer?

A4. The Mikado Plant prefers soil that is well-draining and rich in nutrients. You can use any standard potting soil for this plant, but make sure to add some perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Q5. Is the Mikado Plant toxic?

A5. Yes, the Mikado Plant is toxic if ingested by pets or small children. Keep it out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison control center immediately if you suspect that your pet has eaten part of the plant.

Q6. What temperature range does the Mikado Plant prefer?

A6. The Mikado Plant prefers temperatures between 18°C and 24°C, so make sure to keep it away from drafts or cold windows.

Q7. What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Mikado Plant?

A7. You can use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to provide your Mikado Plant with the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.

Q8. How tall does the Mikado Plant grow?

A8. The Mikado Plant can grow up to 30cm in height, with red stems that resemble the Japanese emperor or "Mikado".

Q9. What kind of light does the Mikado Plant prefer?

A9. The Mikado Plant prefers bright, indirect light, so it's best to place it near a window that doesn't get direct sunlight.

Q10. What should I do if my Mikado Plant is infested with pests?

A10. To prevent pests like spider mites or mealybugs from taking over your plant, make sure to keep it clean and free from dust. You can also treat it with neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.