Helxine

The genus Helxine is monotypic, i.e. it includes only one species - Helxine soleirolii, which is also called soleirolia Soleirolia, a herbaceous perennial plant with creeping thin stems, densely covered with small rounded leaves. In the axils of the leaves in the period from April to October, small greenish inconspicuous flowers are formed. The garden form 'Aurea' is characterized by light yellow or white leaves with a hint of ivory, forming pads of a smaller size than in the original botanical species. The form of 'Argentea' is also small plants, and leaves - with a silvery pattern on the plates.

The genus Helxine is monotypic, i.e. it includes only one species - Helxine soleirolii, which is also called soleirolia Soleirolia, a herbaceous perennial plant with creeping thin stems, densely covered with small rounded leaves. In the axils of the leaves in the period from April to October, small greenish inconspicuous flowers are formed. The garden form 'Aurea' is characterized by light yellow or white leaves with a hint of ivory, forming pads of a smaller size than in the original botanical species. The form of 'Argentea' is also small plants, and leaves - with a silvery pattern on the plates.

Cultivation

Helxine is grown in slightly shaded areas with sufficient humidity (60-70%) of the air. During the summer months, they are placed on balconies and terraces. When planting, use loose and light soil for potted plants, apply mineral fertilizers at the rate of 15 g of complex fertilizer per bucket of soil. Then, once every 2 weeks, a liquid fertilizer for non-flowered plants is added to the water for irrigation in the amount of 10 ml per bucket. To maintain a beautiful appearance of the plant, when required, prune with scissors. It is used as a ground cover or ampel, in compositions with other crops.

Location

Helxine grows well in the open sun, with light shading, and partial shade is also suitable.

Temperature

The optimal temperature for the growth and development of the crop is 13-21 °C, depending on the humidity in the house. In winter, the plant does not tolerate temperatures below 5-7 °C.

Watering

It is necessary to constantly maintain the soil in a moist state by regular watering-plentiful, but not excessive, otherwise the roots may rot.

Transplant

This operation is performed simultaneously with reproduction. Almost every year in the spring, you can divide the bushes, and separate parts can be planted in pots.

Care

Periodically remove the dried parts of the plant.

Reproduction

Propagate in the spring by dividing plants and cuttings that cannot be over-dried (it is better to root them under glass). If you maintain an ideal humidity regime, new instances grow quickly, completely closing the space provided at their disposal.

Acquisition

Helxine is easy to find in well - stocked flower shops and gardening centers-alone or in compositions. Choose dense plants that have a smooth shape with beautiful bright foliage, without spots.

Especially suitable for terrariums If you want to create a garden of indoor plants enclosed in a transparent container or terrarium, do not forget about helxine. Because of its small size, it is planted ahead of taller plants. When thinking about the composition, pay attention to the overall color scheme, what color spots will turn out. Helxine with glossy green leaves contrasts well with dark green or variegated foliage, such as dracaena, or lacy ferns. The container used for the terrarium is made of glass or plexiglass. Still, the latter is better, because it is less fragile.

Especially suitable for terrariums

If you want to create a garden of indoor plants enclosed in a transparent container or terrarium, do not forget about helxine. Because of its small size, it is planted ahead of taller plants. When thinking about the composition, pay attention to the overall color scheme, what color spots will turn out. Helxine with glossy green leaves contrasts well with dark green or variegated foliage, such as dracaena, or lacy ferns. The container used for the terrarium is made of glass or plexiglass. Still, the latter is better, because it is less fragile.