Siderasis (Siderasis) is one of the representatives of perennial herbaceous plants from the comelline family (Commelinaceae). His homeland is the tropics of South America. The origin of this name is Greek, "sideros", which is translated into Russian as "iron". It is not for nothing that Siderasis was given such a name, since its appearance fully justifies its name. All parts of the plant are abundantly covered with reddish-brown protruding hairs.
At home, only one species of all representatives of this genus is cared for - for Siderasis fuscata. It is a herbaceous plant with large thick leaves that are collected in a rosette and a short stem.
The leaves of siderasis are in the form of ellipses, the color of the leaf plate on the upper side is olive green with a silvery central vein, and purple on the lower side. Leaflets are abundantly pubescent with erect reddish-brown hairs. The length of the leaves can reach a maximum of 20 centimeters.
The flowers of this plant are purple or blue, not numerous, small in size, they consist of three petals and stand on small pedicels.
Caring for siderasis at home
Location and lighting
In principle, this plant is not demanding on lighting: siderasis can grow well both in diffused and bright light, and in a small shade. The main thing is that it is not recommended to put it in direct sunlight.
Temperature
The most comfortable temperature for keeping siderasses is 23-25 degrees Celsius in the spring and summer seasons. And in winter, the temperature should be slightly lowered, but it should not be less than 16 degrees.
Air humidity
It is a very moisture-loving plant in terms of air humidity. However, it is worth considering that it is strictly forbidden to spray it due to pubescence. To increase the humidity for siderasis, it is necessary to put the pot with it on a wide pallet with moistened expanded clay (you can use moss) or a special humidifier.
Watering
Siderasis needs moderate watering in spring and summer, which should be reduced in autumn and practically absent in winter. Moreover, water (warm, settled) should not drip onto the leaves.
Top dressing and fertilizers
Only in the spring and summer seasons it is necessary to feed siderasis with any complex fertilizer. Conventional fertilizers work well for any houseplant. Top dressing should be carried out approximately once every two weeks, while the concentration should be several times less than in the attached instructions.
Transfer
The optimal composition of the soil for replanting consists of one part of turf, two parts of humus and one part of sand. It is best to use a shallow pot during transplanting. It is important to take care of good drainage for the plant.
Reproduction of siderasis
It is very simple to propagate siderasis at home: for this, it is enough to divide the bush of an adult plant during transplantation.
Diseases and pests
With a lack of watering or dry air, the ends of the leaves begin to dry out. Of the pests, siderasis most often affect spider mites and scabbard.
