Iresine herbstii 'Rich Redstar' - Bloodleaf

The bright red, almost pink, veins of this plant give it the common name 'bloodleaf', and it's easy to see why. Amongst the deep burgundy leaves, they stand out like arteries full of blood. The striking colour is, however, entirely the pigment of the plant itself, and it serves even more to make the plant stand out, amongst any plant collection, thanks to its vibrancy. Keep this plant happy with bright light and even soil moisture, and it will reward you with an abundance of its bright foliage.

Scientific Name
Iresine diffusa f. herbstii 'Rich Redstar' (wool-branch plant that spreads, Herbst's form, cultivar: rich redstar)

Synonyms: Iresine herbstii, Achyranthes herbstii 

This plant was originally identified as Iresine herbstii, but following a 2000 paper the scientific name accepted by Kew is now Iresine diffusa f. herbstii, reflecting its reclassification as a form of a different species.

Common Name
Bloodleaf, Beefsteak Plant, Herbst's Bloodleaf, Chicken Gizzard

Origin
The Bloodleaf plant is native to Peru, South America where it grows in wet tropical climes.

Light
This plant doesn't need direct sun, which can scorch the leaves, but it does need the light to be bright to maintain its colour. Make sure it's bright enough for you to read a newspaper in during the daytime in the spot you choose for this plant.

Water
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Humidity
This plant likes above-average humidity. Make sure it's not in a draught or near a radiator, and watch out for crispy brown patches on the edges of the leaves - if it isn't getting enough moisture in the air you might need to add in a pebble tray to increase local humidity.

Soil
Use a well-draining but moisture retentive mix. One with a combination of perlite, coir and sand - or a mix designed for ferns - will work well here. Repot every few years as the plant grows.

Food
Feed every few weeks in spring and summer; reduce to every couple of months in autumn and winter when the plant will be growing less.

Temperature
Your Bloodleaf Plant will prefer temperatures between 18-26°C. It can grow outdoors in summer, but make sure the temperatures are consistently above 10°C wherever you are keeping it.

Pet-safe
Yes, this plant is non-toxic  - just make sure your pets aren't eating too much as its sap can be an irritant.

Sprouts Top Tips
Pinch back growing tips to keep it bushy and compact.
If the leaf colour starts to fade, gradually move to higher light.

Extras
Smaller Bloodleaf plants can do well in terrarium environments, where they will appreciate the high level of humidity.