Iresine Herbstii
The Iresine Herbstii is also known as Iresine Herbstii Bloodleaf, due to its veined leaves. The veined leaf pattern can vary from golden yellow with green to burgundy. In the Netherlands, this plant is also known as the “Biefstukplant” (Steak Plant).
Originally, the Biefstukplant comes from Brazil and belongs to the Amaranth family. It is a true tropical plant that, with proper care, can grow up to 70 cm tall!
In addition to the Iresine Herbstii Bloodleaf, there is also the Iresine Herbstii Aureoreticulata, which is characterized by its green leaves with striking pink stems. The Bordeaux-red Iresine Herbstii Brilliantissima is, of course, recognizable by its vibrant deep red foliage. Our colorful Iresine Herbstii is cultivated by our grower, Richplant.
Did you know that…
The Iresine Herbstii is also known as the “Biefstukplant” (Steak Plant), because the leaves resemble a piece of colored meat. Despite this flavorful name, the plant is not edible.
Iresine Herbstii care
Caring for the Iresine Herbstii isn’t too difficult. As mentioned earlier, with proper care, this tropical houseplant can grow up to 70 cm tall. Simply place the plant in a bright spot without direct sunlight, water it once a week, and your “Biefstukplant” will thrive. Our grower, Richard, is the expert on the Biefstukplant and knows exactly how to take care of the Iresine Herbstii! In short:
- Plenty of light, but no direct sunlight
- This tropical plant loves warmth, so make sure the temperature doesn’t drop below 15 degrees.
- Keep the soil moist; don’t let it dry out
- Water once a week
Watering the Iresine Herbstii
Just like every plant, the Iresine Herbstii needs enough water. However, make sure not to overwater it; the soil of the Biefstukplant only needs to be slightly moist. The time of year also plays a role — the warmer it is, the faster the soil dries out, and just like any other houseplant, it will need water more frequently.
The ideal spot for the Iresine Herbstii
The ideal spot for the Iresine Herbstii is a bright place without direct sunlight. Be sure not to leave it in the cold, as the Iresine Herbstii cannot tolerate temperatures below 15 degrees.
This colorful plant can be used as a houseplant or placed outdoors on the terrace during the summer.
Repotting Iresine Herbstii
You can repot the Iresine Herbstii best in the spring. During this period, plants receive more energy due to warmer temperatures and increased light intensity. This helps houseplants develop new roots quickly.
Plant food
The Iresine Herbstii only needs plant food once a month during its growing period. The growing period is usually from March to October.
Is the Iresine Herbstii toxic?
The Iresine Herbstii is not a toxic plant, making it an ideal choice to have in the house if you have pets or small children.
Is is necessary to prune the Iresine Herbstii?
It is not necessary to prune your Iresine Herbstii. You should only remove dead leaves from the Bloodleaf plant when you come across them.
Does the Iresine Herbstii bloom?
The Bloodleaf plant is more of a green houseplant (despite its colorful appearance) than a flowering houseplant. The Iresine Herbstii is a non-flowering plant, so it does not bloom.
Is the Iresine Herbstii an air-purifying plant?
The Iresine Herbstii is not an air-purifying plant.
