Iresine herbstii Bloodleaf - Herbst's bloodleaf

Sometimes planted in seasonal beds, the Iresine herbstii 'Bloodleaf' is also a remarkable houseplant thanks to its intensely purple foliage with pink veins. With its lovely compact and bushy habit, it adds character to a living room or conservatory.

Also known as Herbst's bloodleaf, the Iresine herbstii 'Bloodleaf' belongs to the Amaranthaceae botanical family. This variety is prized for its particularly colourful foliage. The botanical species is also called Iresine reticulata and Iresine diffusa. Native to Brazil, this plant grows in tropical and subtropical forests in abundant humidity and warmth. Its hardiness is very limited but it can be grown seasonally in the garden as long as there are no frosts.

The Iresine herbstii 'Bloodleaf' is a bushy perennial with an upright and dense habit. Indoors, it reaches a height of 30 to 60 cm with a spread of around 45 cm depending on growing conditions. Its ovate, slightly glossy, soft to the touch leaves measure between 5 and 10 cm long. Fast-growing, the plant reaches its mature size in just a few months. Its flowering is rare, taking the form of small whitish flowers in panicles of a modest appearance, but which contrast beautifully with its foliage.

The Iresine genus which includes approximately 80 species, is native to tropical regions of the Americas, particularly South America and the Caribbean. The genus name comes from the Greek 'erineos', meaning 'woolly', referring to the appearance of the seeds of certain species. The designation 'Bloodleaf' directly evokes the foliage's vivid reddish colour reminiscent of the intensity of blood.

To grow the Iresine herbstii 'Bloodleaf' indoors, place it in a sufficiently bright spot. It will tolerate a few hours of gentle sunlight, but harsh and prolonged exposure can scorch its leaves. The plant thrives in temperatures between 16°C and 24°C with moderate to high ambient humidity. Keep the soil slightly moist with regular watering but avoid excess water to prevent root rot.

The Iresine herbstii 'Bloodleaf' easily fits into various décor styles. Place it on a shelf, console, or in a stylish planter to accentuate its magnificent colours. It can also be paired with plants featuring green or silvery foliage to create a harmonious contrast. Consider, for example, a Pilea cadierei (aluminium plant) and a Calathea lancifolia. Outdoors, from spring to autumn, it will make a striking addition to a planter or flower bed, provided that it is placed in shade and brought indoors before the cold arrives.