Welcome to The Bio Dude!
Common Name: Purple Waffle Plant, Waffle Plant
Scientific Name: Hemigraphis alternata
-Care Recommendations By The Dude-
Best for These Animals: Small and moderate sized reptiles and amphibians from tropical climates.
Bio Dude Substrates: TerraFlora, TerraFauna, some TerraFirma
Soil Depth: Shallow to moderate with proper drainage, though it prefers consistently moist soil.
Lighting: Low to medium indirect light. Do not place near a heat or basking lamp.
Humidity & Misting: 40%-100%, with higher humidity levels suggested for optimal growth.
Mature Plant Size & Root System: These fun plants will max out at about 12" tall and will get bushier with age; if height becomes an issue you may prune down its size-- it is recommended to remove flower spikes when they form or plants tend to get "leggy". It has a shallow fibrous root system.
Temperature Tolerance & Placement in the Terrarium: Too high temperatures/low humidity may cause leaves to brown. It will wilt when soil becomes too dry, but can easily be resuscitated with a good, deep drenching. Works well as a front (low) groundcover, if maintained low, or as an underplanting.
Edible & Side Effects if Ingested: Non-toxic if consumed, though these are typically used for ornamental, not edible, purposes.
Pot Size & Packaging: A single 4" potted waffle plant is shipped in the pot, wrapped in paper.