Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months to prevent overhydration and potential root rot.
Also known as Sunset Bells
Chrysothemis pulchella, known as Squarestem, is a vibrant tropical perennial grown for its showy, bell-shaped orange-red flowers and attractive foliage.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. Can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, but do not let the plant dry out completely. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average to Warm
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months to prevent overhydration and potential root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flower stalks and any yellowing or dead foliage promptly. Pinching back the tips of new shoots can help promote a more compact plant.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 5-10 cm cuttings, remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant in moist potting mix and keep warm and humid until roots form.
Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally with added perlite or sand.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Squarestem (Chrysothemis pulchella)
Where Squarestem (Chrysothemis pulchella) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Chrysothemis |
| Species | Chrysothemis pulchella |
Similar in genus Chrysothemis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
