Creeping Basket Plant
Callisia repens (kah-LEE-see-uh reh-PENZ)
Turtle vine is a trailing and mat-forming succulent native to Southeast Texas to Tropical America. They are found in shady, rocky areas, forests, and shrublands. The genus name, Callisia, originates from the Greek word, kallos , meaning "beauty." The specific epithet, repens , is Latin for "creeping." The plant is a member of the spiderwort family (Commelinaceae). The turtle vine prefers bright, indirect sunlight and moist, sandy, well-drained soil or potting mix containing perlite to promote good drainage. The plant also prefers a pH of 5.0 to 6.5. It is intolerant to frost. In cooler climates, the plant must be brought indoors during the winter. They prefer temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Growth can be controlled by pruning. The plant is propagated by stem cuttings. offsets, or seeds. The stems can easily root at the nodes and form mats. The plant has a creeping, cascading, and dense habit and has purple stems. The foliage is dark green, tiny, fleshy, and oval-shaped. The foliage color may be solid green, pink, gold, white, or variegated depending on the variety. Small white or pink flowers occur during late spring to early summer, and they are followed by capsules containing seeds. The turtle vine has tiny leaves and dark purple stems. Due to its trailing habit the plant can be used as indoor container plant or in hanging baskets. In warm climates, it may also be used as a groundcover. It is fast-growing and will grow up to 4 to 6 inches tall and more than 2 feet long. The turtle vine is a popular ornamental houseplant and makes an attractive hanging basket. The variegated colors of the cultivars with their cascading purple stems are very striking. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for spider mites, aphids, and mealy bugs. Overwatering can cause root rot or fungal diseases. Rabbits enjoy the foliage. Leaf discoloration or leaf scorch can result from intense, direct sun. Too much shade can cause leggy and weak stems. When used as a groundcover the turtle vine can smother weaker plants. It is listed as invasive in South Africa, China, and Cuba. Be aware that the turtle vine is toxic to pets and children, if ingested. The sap may also cause skin irritation for humans and pets.
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 55 attributes.
How it fits the guild