Purple Waffle

Purple Waffle Care

Hemigraphis Exotica

Other names: Strobilanthes Alternata 'exotica'

What is the plant

Exotica Purple Waffle is a small perennial tropical plant with an unusual texture that is native to Asia and belongs to the Acanthaceae family. One of the main features of the plant is that it changes its color to a duller color when it needs watering, which makes it popular and desirable not only among beginners but also among experienced collectors.

Hemigraphis alternata 'Éxotica' is easily identified by its oblong-oval leaves that have a waffle texture and are dark green above and purple below. The leaves grow on long slender stems up to 24 in (60 cm) long, but the plant itself only grows to 8 in (20 cm) tall, making it quite compact.

The small flowers appear in early summer and are bright white in color, but they are not as showy as the colorful leaves and are not popular.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

12°C - 20°C

Hardiness zone

10a - 11

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
The plant needs periodic watering after the top layer of the soil dries out. Use a moisture meter to check the soil moisture level.
Pruning
Trim off excess and wilted leaves with clean scissors to encourage healthy plant growth.
Fertilizer
Once a season, apply a slow-release fertilizer after reading the instructions on the package.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Provide the plant with access to bright or medium sunlight, as its color may become less saturated with insufficient light.
Soil
A well-drained potting soil that contains nutrients is suitable.
Propagation
Cut off a healthy stem with a disinfected blade and place it in filtered water, then change it periodically. After two months, small roots will appear, indicating readiness for planting in well-drained, slightly moist soil.

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Temperature
Hemigraphis alternata 'Éxotica' grows best at 55-80˚F (12-26°C).
Container
Use a container made of any material and with several drainage holes.
Fun fact
In addition to the garden and rooms, Exotica Purple Waffle can often be found in large stores or various establishments, attracting customers with its appearance.