The slightly stocky Christmas rose is increasingly being replaced by an exotic tree with interesting red “beads”. It presents itself beautifully and keeps its fruits for up to six months. Soon it may completely replace the traditional poinsettia. We are talking about notched ardisia.

Notched sardinia

  • Ardisia is a small tree that is successfully grown at home.

It occurs naturally in Taiwan, Korea and Thailand, especially in swampy areas, and grows to a height of 1 m in such conditions.

  • It reaches a size of 50 to 60 cm in a pot.

Its currency is the fruits – small red balls that grow in bunches just below the dense fleshy leaves.

  • Due to its exotic origin, ardisia will grow best in a permeable, moist substrate.

The red “balls” last up to six months, provided you take proper care of them, they are reserved a place with diffused light and no drafts.

How to take care of ardisia so that it pleases not only at Christmas?

The rules for growing ardisia at home in a pot are not very complicated, despite everything.

Attention should be paid to:

  • Watering – the plant likes a constantly moist substrate. In summer it should be watered 2-3 times a week, while in winter it is better to focus on sprinkling its leaves.
  • Substrate – it will do well in universal soilbut in order to prevent root rot, it is better to mix it with fine gravel, so if you happen to spill a little bit of ardisia, the excess water will have a drain.
  • Location – prefers moderate light. Exposure to direct sunlight does not tolerate well. A good choice will be to place the flower pot near the window behind the curtain.
  • Temperature – due to its origin, the tree likes warmth, that’s why there wasexpose to drafts and sudden temperature changes. In summer, it will do well on a shady windowsill.
  • Nutrition – Ardisia needs fertilization in spring and summerbut does not require special nutrients. A basic fertilizer for flowerpots suits her. We do not fertilize it during the winter period, which ensures that the plant remains at rest during the dormant period.
  • Pruning – it is recommended to prune ardisia mainly at the end of winter or at the beginning of springuntil new shoots appear. This will preserve its nice shape and stimulate its further growth.

Unfortunately, pests like ardiasis

  • Flukes and mites can be the fear of every Ardisia grower.

If you notice an infestation, you can deal with them using ready-made products from the store or with a homemade spray of water and a little soap.

  • Simply spray the plant thoroughly until you have dealt with the uninvited guests.

Ardisia reacts to almost any unpleasantness by dropping its leaves. At first they turn yellow and eventually start to fall off. This will happen with too bright a site, as well as with excessive watering or even with too low a temperature. Fortunately, it works just as well to “fix” these mistakes and comes together quickly. Drying and wrinkling of red fruits will also be a symptom of insufficient temperature.

If you meet all the requirements for this slightly whimsical plant, you will enjoy an evergreen tree all year round and it will stand out especially well at Christmas time.

Forget the poinsettia. This plant is the new queen of the Christmas windowsill