Also known as Boerhavia Bracteata · Hog Butter · Hog Food
Scarlet Spiderling (Boerhavia coccinea) is a low-growing perennial with vibrant magenta flowers. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and is excellent for groundcover or roc
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Scarlet Spiderling prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months or when the plant is dormant to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Prune Scarlet Spiderling to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of stems regularly, especially in spring. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems at any time of the year.
Pruning helps in managing its sprawling habit.
Scarlet Spiderling is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring or summer and root them in moist potting mix or water. Cuttings usually root within a few weeks.
It can also be propagated from seed sown in spring.
Repot Scarlet Spiderling every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Repot in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Scarlet Spiderling (Boerhavia coccinea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Boerhavia |
| Species | Boerhavia coccinea |
Similar in genus Boerhavia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
