Callisa Repens - Green Bubbles

The Callisia repens, also known as the Callisia Bubbles, is a low creeping succulent, with small glossy green leaves which are highlighted by a purple undertone. This cute plant draws the attention of most plant lovers due to the delightful rounded form the plant can hold. The Callisia repens is the perfect touch of style for a side table or counter. Better yet, as a fast growing plant it will reward any house plant hobbyist in no time at all with a trailing mass that can reach lengths of up to 1.2m long! Making it an ideal plant for a Macarena or trailing from a bookshelf.

To keep this plant in its delightful form regular maintenance is required. If left untrimmed your Callisia repens will become leggy and start to look quite scraggly. Like most plants your Callisia will also want to be kept damp, but not water logged. As a tropical plant originating from Central America the Callisia prefers a humid environment in a spot of indirect light or partial shade which is why it is a plant accustomed to damp soil, but is not keen to keep its feet wet.

Plant Care

Temperature
The Callisia Repens prefers a warm and humid environment. Ideally, with temperatures above 16 degrees.

Light
The Callisia will require bright indirect sunlight every day. If placed in a shadier spot, the new foliage may not be variegated. Direct sunlight will burn the leaves.

Watering
Water regularly but allow the soil to partly dry out before watering again. The roots do not like to be left wet so ensure that your pot has good drainage. Water slightly more during spring and summer months which are periods of growth. Reduce your watering schedules during the winter months.

Maintenance
The Callisia repens will need to be trimmed regularly to help maintain the desired shape of your plant. It will hold a ‘bubble’ shape until the weight of its stems and leaves makes it trail. Put your plant out in the summer rain, or rinse it in the shower on occasion to remove any dust that may have accumulated.

Fertilizer
During spring and summer use an all-purpose liquid plant food to promote new growth.

Toxicity
The Callisia is a known irritant to pets and children and should not be consumed.

Soil
This plant prefers a well-draining acidic soil.

Re-potting
When the Callisia Repens is starting to lose its lush condition it is time to re-pot. Take the healthier portion of your plant and place it into fresh soil.

Potential Problems

Discolouration of Leaves: Browning leaves on your plant is an indication of under-watering or is a result of leaf burn due to direct sunlight. Check the location and weight of your plant to see if it needs to be moved or watered.