Red-flame ivy

Scientific name of Red-flame ivy: Hemigraphis colorata

Name of Red-flame ivy in different languages:-

Sanskrit: Vranaropani

Malayalam: മുറികൂട്ടി – Murikooti, Muriyan pacha

Plant description:-

1. Appearance: Hemigraphis colorata is a herbaceous perennial with distinctive foliage. The leaves are typically dark green with prominent white or pink veins, giving them a waffle-like appearance, hence the common name “Waffle Plant.” The leaves are oval-shaped and have slightly serrated edges. Under good light conditions, the leaves may take on a reddish-purple hue, especially along the veins, adding to its ornamental value.
2. Size: This plant generally stays compact, reaching heights of about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimeters) and spreading outwards as it grows.
3. Flowers: While the main attraction of Hemigraphis colorata is its foliage, it can produce small, inconspicuous purple flowers during the growing season. However, it’s primarily cultivated for its colorful leaves rather than its flowers.
4. Cultural Requirements: The Waffle Plant thrives in warm, humid environments and is often grown as a houseplant or in outdoor gardens in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-draining soil with regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. It can tolerate partial shade but generally prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant leaf colors.
5. Propagation: Hemigraphis colorata can be propagated easily through stem cuttings. Simply take a healthy stem cutting, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a pot with moist soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until it establishes roots.
6. Uses: Due to its striking foliage, the Waffle Plant is popular as an ornamental plant for indoor spaces, such as homes, offices, and conservatories. It can also be used in outdoor gardens as ground cover or in containers. In landscaping, it adds a splash of color and texture, especially when planted alongside other foliage plants with contrasting shapes and colors.
7. Care: Regular pruning helps maintain the compact shape of Hemigraphis colorata and encourages new growth. It’s essential to watch out for pests like aphids or spider mites, especially when grown indoors. These can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Leaf Arrangement

Useful plant parts:

Leaf

Medicinal uses :

To cure fresh cuts and wounds, to stop external bleeding, hemorrhage, Dioheriya, dysentery, and kidney stones.

Chemical content:

Saponin, tannin, flavanoids, steroids, cinnamate etc.

How to prepare medicines:

Leaf juice can be poured on fresh cuts help full in fast cure.