The tapeworm plant (Homalocladium platycladium) is also referred to as the ribbon bush, although the latter name is more apropos as you will find out. Native to the Solomon Islands, this plant is a member of the Polygonaceae or knotweed family amongst which rhubarb and buckwheat count as relations. It is categorized as a shrub, but a shrub like no other. This plant is more or less leafless. Its growth is that of flat, segmented green stems about ½ inches wide, resembling, you guessed it, tapeworms. These odd stems radiate upward from the base to a height of between 4-8 feet or even taller if supported with a spread of between 6-8 feet across. The older stems become slightly more rounded, while young stems bear fleeting 1- to 2-inch leaves.
Ribbon Bush Care
Homalocladium Platycladum
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Lighting
Full Sun
Hardiness zone
9a - 11
Difficulty
Easy
How to Care for the Plant
Water
Moderate (about 2.5 cm of water per week), limited in winter. Rotting will occur due to excess watering, but with little leaves on the flat shoots fall faster.
Fertilizer
Once in 3-4 weeks, feed on liquid fertilizer. Can be used along with mineral, organic fertilizer.
Sunlight
He likes bright diffused light, at least 6 hours a day (east or west window), but excessive lighting can lead to yellowing of the leaves. In the shade growth slows down, and then small leaves begin to die.
Soil
1 part of the garden land, 1 part of coarse sand or perlite and 1 part of peat. Prefers rich and loose soil, requires good drainage and a hole in the pot.
Temperature
In summer: best 20-68 ° F; in winter it is not lower than 60,8-64,4 ° F. At low temperatures, the stems turn yellow and die.
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