Homalomena wallisii Emerald Gem

Homalomena 'Emerald Gem' (Adelonema wallisii) is a relatively easy-to-grow houseplant, with foliage reminiscent of certain philodendron species. It develops heart-shaped, rounded, and pointed leaves with prominent veins, in a dark green hue with a slight bluish tint. This tropical Asian plant has an elegant silhouette. Its striking appearance fits well in contemporary, bohemian, or "jungle-style" interiors. It is quite resilient and thrives in medium to bright indirect light. Ensure its substrate remains slightly moist.

Homalomena wallisii 'Emerald Gem' (Adelonema wallisii) is a herbaceous perennial, belonging to the Araceae family, with a bushy and compact habit. It typically reaches a height of around 1 m with a similar spread. Its broad, ovate, and delicately textured leaves display a lovely bluish-green shade. Borne on long petioles, they form a small, upright, and slightly spreading clump. Its growth rate is moderate. Though it may produce greenish spathe-like inflorescences, flowering is rare indoors and remains secondary to the beauty of its foliage.

Native to the tropical forests of South America, particularly Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama, wild Adelonema wallisii thrives under the dense canopy of rainforests. Here, it benefits from filtered light and high ambient humidity. Its natural habitat consists of rich, well-draining soil, consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Indoors, Homalomena 'Emerald Gem' prefers ambient humidity between 50–70% and medium to bright light. It grows best at a steady temperature of 18–25°C, avoiding sudden fluctuations. The ideal substrate is rich and well-draining, with the soil kept slightly moist. Note that Homalomena is mildly toxic if ingested.