Scalloped Shingle Plant, Marcgravia sp.
You will receive 2 cuttings with 10 or more leaves. All TDF cuttings have adventitious, aerial roots.
Adventitious aerial roots are roots that grow from the stem or other above ground, non-root tissues of a plant, rather than from the main root system.These specialized roots can absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, provide anchorage to the support plant, and even facilitate propagation or photosynthesis.
This species grows fast for Marcgravia species, and is very hardy. This vine will grow on wood, rock, glass, just about ant surface once rooting takes place.
This Marcgravia has scalloped, or oval dark leaves that fade to a maroon-green. The scallop shaped leaves have a pretty sheen to them. Make sure to administer lower light while rooting, this plant will start to root fast. Moderate to high humidity, they do not like water standing on their leaves. Keep the moss moist but not wet while rooting.
Care Guide for Marcgravia (Shingle Plants)
Marcgravia, commonly known as shingle plants, are an enchanting genus of tropical climbing plants native to the rainforests of Central and South America as well as parts of the Caribbean. Their unique growth habit, with juvenile leaves that cling closely to surfaces like shingles on a roof, makes them a sought-after choice for terrariums, vivariums, and indoor plant collections. Despite their exotic appeal, these plants are relatively straightforward to care for when their natural environment is emulated. This guide covers everything you need to know about growing Marcgravia successfully.
1. Light Requirements
Marcgravia species thrive in low to medium indirect light, mimicking the dappled shade of their native rain forest habitat. Here are some tips:
Indirect Light: Place the plant in a spot where it receives bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
Artificial Lighting: In terrariums or low-light homes, supplement natural light with full-spectrum LED grow lights. Keep the light intensity moderate to prevent leaf burn.
Signs of Light Stress: Yellowing leaves may indicate too much light, while leggy growth suggests insufficient light.
Temperature and Humidity
Marcgravia plants are accustomed to the warm, humid conditions of tropical forests. Maintaining these conditions is crucial for their health:
Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 60°F (15°C) or sudden temperature changes.
Humidity: Aim for 70%-90% humidity. High humidity is essential for optimal growth, especially for young plants and those grown in terrariums.
Humidity Solutions: Use a humidifier, mist the plant regularly, or place a tray of water near the plant to maintain humidity. In closed environments like terrariums, humidity is generally easier to control.
Watering
Consistent moisture is key for Marcgravia, but they do not tolerate soggy soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so proper watering practices are critical:
Watering Frequency: Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels slightly dry to the touch. In high humidity environments, less frequent watering may be required.
Water Quality: Use rainwater, distilled water, or filtered water to avoid mineral buildup, as Marcgravia is sensitive to hard water.
Drainage: Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Soil and Substrate
Marcgravia thrives in a well-aerated, moisture-retentive substrate that mimics its natural epiphytic environment:
Soil Mix: Use a mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, and a small amount of peat or coco coir. This provides excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture.
Terrarium Substrate: In terrariums, a layer of sphagnum moss or an ABG (Atlanta Botanical Garden) mix works well.
pH Level: The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
Fertilization
Marcgravia species benefit from regular feeding during their growing season (spring and summer):
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Type: Use a fertilizer designed for epiphytic or tropical plants. Look for one that provides trace elements like magnesium and iron.
Dormant Season: Reduce or stop fertilization in fall and winter when growth slows.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning and maintenance help keep Marcgravia healthy and encourage lush growth:
Pruning: Trim back overgrown vines or remove yellowing leaves as needed. Use sterilized scissors to prevent infections.
Training: Encourage the plant’s natural shingling habit by providing a vertical surface, such as a moss pole, cork bark, or a terrarium wall.
Cleaning: Wipe down leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain the plant’s aesthetic appeal.
Choosing a Cutting: Select a healthy stem with at least 2-3 nodes.
Preparation: Cut the stem just below a node using sterilized scissors.
Rooting Medium: Place the cutting in moist sphagnum moss or water. High humidity and indirect light will enhance rooting success.
Transplanting: Once roots are 1-2 inches long, transplant the cutting into a suitable soil mix or terrarium substrate.
Pests: Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Diseases: Overwatering can lead to root rot or fungal issues. Ensure proper drainage and air circulation to prevent problems.
Preventative Measures: Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests or diseases, especially if it’s part of a terrarium or mixed plant environment.
Terrarium and Vivarium Use
Marcgravia species are ideal for enclosed environments, where their unique growth habit and love of humidity can shine:
Setup: Use a vertical surface for shingling. Attach the plant to cork bark or other climbing structures to replicate its natural epiphytic growth.
Companion Plants: Pair Marcgravia with other tropical, humidity-loving species like ferns, orchids, or mosses.
Lighting: Ensure the lighting in the enclosure is sufficient to support growth without overheating the environment.
Tips for Success
Patience: Marcgravia can be slow-growing, especially in low light or suboptimal conditions. Be patient and consistent with care.
Environment: Regularly monitor temperature, humidity, and soil moisture to ensure conditions stay within the ideal range.
Adaptation: New plants may take time to acclimate to their environment. Provide stable conditions to help them adjust.
Marcgravia species are stunning tropical plants that bring a touch of rainforest magic to any indoor space or terrarium. With their fascinating shingling growth pattern and lush foliage, they make an excellent addition to plant collections. By providing the right balance of light, humidity, and care, you can enjoy the beauty of these remarkable plants for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, Marcgravia’s captivating presence is sure to enhance your indoor garden.
