Callisia Repens (Turtle Vine)

Callisia repens (Turtle Vine, Creeping Inchplant, or Bolivian Jew):

🌱 Plant Overview

• Botanical name: Callisia repens

• Family: Commelinaceae (Spiderwort family)

• Common names: Turtle Vine, Creeping Inchplant, Bolivian Jew, Inch Plant

• Type: Perennial, trailing groundcover or hanging plant

• Growth habit: Compact, mat-forming with small, fleshy, oval leaves. The stems are purplish underneath, while the top leaves are glossy green.

• Uses: Popular as an indoor hanging plant, groundcover in warm climates, or terrarium plant due to its small size.

🪴 Soil Requirements

• Prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

• A mix of:

  • 2 parts good-quality potting soil

  • 1 part perlite or coarse sand

  • 1 part coco peat or peat moss
    ensures aeration and moisture balance.

• Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 – 7.0) is ideal.

💧 Watering

• Loves consistent moisture but cannot tolerate waterlogging.

• Watering interval:

  • Summer & active growth (spring–summer): Water 2–3 times a week or when the top 1–2 cm of soil dries out.

  • Winter & dormancy: Reduce watering to once a week or less.

• Always let excess water drain out; never allow the pot to sit in water.

☀️ Sunlight Requirement

• Thrives in bright, indirect light.

• Direct sun for long hours may scorch the delicate leaves.

• Can tolerate partial shade but may lose vibrant color.

• Indoors: Place near an east or north-facing window.

• Outdoors: Keep in a semi-shaded area (like under trees or on balconies).

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Prefers warm temperatures (18–28°C).

• Avoid frost; minimum tolerance around 10–12°C.

• Loves moderate to high humidity (50–70%). In dry homes, mist occasionally or use a humidity tray.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pinch back tips to encourage bushy growth.

• Trim leggy stems regularly.

• Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health.

🌱 Propagation Tips

Callisia repens is very easy to propagate:

1. Stem Cuttings (most common):

   • Take 5–7 cm stem cuttings with at least 2–3 leaf nodes.

   • Place in water or directly in moist potting mix.

   • Roots develop within 1–2 weeks.

2. Division:

   • When repotting, gently separate clumps and replant.

3. Layering:

   • The trailing stems often root where they touch soil—cut and pot them separately.

⚠️ Things to Watch Out For

• Overwatering → Root rot.

• Too little light → Leggy, weak growth.

• Cold drafts → Leaf drop.

• Pets: Slightly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested (can cause vomiting).

✅ In summary: Turtle Vine is a low-maintenance, fast-growing ornamental plant perfect for hanging baskets and small spaces. With well-draining soil, bright indirect light, and moderate watering, it thrives beautifully.