Iresine herbsti

Common Name: Bloodleaf

Description: Bloodleaf (Iresine herbstii) is a tender perennial native to Brazil, celebrated for its vibrant foliage. The plant features oval, purple-red leaves with notched tips and striking hot-pink midribs and veins, creating a dramatic visual appeal. While the greenish-white flowers are inconspicuous, the colorful leaves make Bloodleaf a popular choice for adding contrast in garden beds, borders, and containers. In Melbourne's climate, it is typically grown as an annual or houseplant due to its sensitivity to cold temperatures. Bloodleaf thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soils and performs best in full sun to part shade, with more intense leaf coloration occurring in brighter light conditions. Regular watering is essential during the growing season, but it's important to reduce moisture from autumn to late winter to prevent root rot. Pinching back the stems encourages bushier growth and helps maintain a compact form. 

Form:

• Shrub - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: Approximately 30–90 cm
• Width: Approximately 30–90 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Does not flower under Melbourne's weather conditions

Flower Colour:

• Greenish-white (inconspicuous)

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Low Maintenance
• Heat Tolerant
• Shade Tolerant

Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and animals.

Companion Plants:

• Coleus (Coleus scutellarioides)
• Impatiens (Impatiens spp.)
• Begonias (Begonia spp.)
• Caladiums (Caladium spp.)
• Ferns (Various species)