There are many reasons why people might want to get graptophyllum pictum.
Maybe you like how it looks, or perhaps you’re looking for a plant to care for that is easy to keep alive.
No matter what your reason, learning how to take care of this plant is essential if you want it to thrive.
Graptophyllum pictum, also known as the painted leaf plant, is a beautiful and unique plant native to Malaysia.
This plant is easily recognizable by its large, colorful leaves patterned with shades of green, yellow, pink, and purple.
This plant is perfect for adding a splash of color to any garden or home.
Graptophyllum pictum is relatively easy to care for, making it a great addition to gardens for beginners and advanced horticulturalists.
Some of the common household names for the graptophyllum pictum include:
- Tiger bush
- Caricature plant
- Painted leaf plant
- Striped leaf plant
- Carpet plant
This plant is often confused with the closely related genus Philodendron, but there are a few easy ways to tell them apart.
For one, graptophyllum pictum plants have much thinner leaves than philodendrons. They also lack the large terminal leaf that philodendrons have.
The tiger bush is so named for its striped leaves, which are thought to resemble the stripes on a tiger’s fur.
Quick Facts On Graptophyllum Pictum
- Family: Rubiaceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 75° to 85° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy
- Fertilizer: Balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
- Propagation: Stem cuttings
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, whiteflies, aphids, Powdery mildew, leaf spots, root rot
Graptophyllum Pictum Care
Graptophyllum pictum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners.
Here are some tips on how to care for your graptophyllum pictum:
What Does The Caricature Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
Graptophyllum pictum is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 3′ feet.
Also, the caricature plant is a succulent that grows in a rosette shape.
It has fleshy, green leaves with red or purple edges. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern and grow about 3″ to 4″ inches long.
When Does Caricature Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The caricature plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer.
The flowers are not fragrant.
What Are The Lighting Needs, and Temperature Requirements?
The caricature plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.
The ideal temperature range is 60° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit.
How And When To Water and Fertilize Caricature Plant?
Watering and fertilizing are the two most important aspects of Graptophyllum pictum care.
When it comes to watering, this plant species is very drought tolerant and can even survive in dry conditions for extended periods.
However, during the growing season, it is best to water regularly and ensure that the soil is moist but not soggy.
When it comes to fertilizing, Graptophyllum pictum does best with a balanced fertilizer that is applied monthly during the growing season.
What Is The Best Soil For Graptophyllum Pictum, And When Should You Transplant?
This plant species prefers a well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. If your soil is not well-drained, it is best to mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Graptophyllum pictum can be transplanted at any time of the year, but the best time to do so is during the spring.
Does Graptophyllum Pictum Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Pruning and deadheading are also important aspects of Graptophyllum pictum care.
This plant species can be pruned at any time of the year, but the best time to do so is during the spring.
Deadheading is also best done during the spring.
How To Over-Winter Graptophyllum Pictum?
If you live in an area that experiences cold winters, it is best to bring your Graptophyllum pictum indoors or place it in a protected location during winter.
When doing so, reduce watering and fertilizing to once every 2 weeks.
How To Propagate Tiger Bush Plant?
If you want to propagate your tiger bush plant, it is best to do so in the springtime.
Here’s what to do:
- You can take stem cuttings about 4″ to 6″ inches long.
- Make sure to remove any leaves that are near the bottom of the cutting.
- Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and then place it in a pot filled with moistened perlite or vermiculite.
- Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a clear lid to create a humid environment.
- Place the pot in a bright, warm location but without direct sunlight.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
In about 4 to 6 weeks, you should see new growth. You can then transplant the new plants into individual pots.
Graptophyllum Pictum Pests And Diseases
Tiger bush plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they can be susceptible to the following pests:
- Mealybugs
- Whiteflies
- Aphids
These pests can cause the leaves to be yellow and drop off. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Diseases that can affect tiger bush plants include:
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems. It is caused by too much moisture and not enough air circulation. To control powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around your plant and water only at the base of the plant so that the leaves do not stay wet.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. It is often caused by too much moisture or the crowding of plants. To control leaf spots, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. You can also remove affected leaves to help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by too much moisture around the plant’s roots. The roots will start to decay, and the plant will wilt. To control root rot, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering. You can also remove affected roots and replant them in fresh soil.
Suggested Uses For Painted Leaf Plant
Tiger bush plants make excellent houseplants and can also be used in gardens as a groundcover or hanging baskets.
In addition, they are drought tolerant once established, so they make a good choice for xeriscaping.
For example, you can use tiger bush plants in the following ways:
- As a houseplant: Tiger bush makes an excellent houseplant because it is relatively easy to care for and can tolerate lower light levels. It also doesn’t require much watering, so it is perfect for those who forget to water their plants regularly.
- As groundcover: Tiger bush can be used as groundcover in gardens. It will spread quickly and can help to control weeds.
In hanging baskets – the Tiger bush also makes a beautiful plant for hanging baskets. The cascading foliage will create a beautiful waterfall effect.
- Xeriscaping: Tiger bush is drought tolerant once it is established, making it a good choice for xeriscaping. It can help to reduce water usage in your landscape.
Overall, the tiger bush is a versatile plant that can be used in various ways.
Whether you use it as a houseplant, groundcover, or in a hanging basket, it is sure to add beauty to your home.