Homalomena Care: Growing Tips for This Tropical Houseplant

StyleLush™ Uplift™ Camouflage (Homalomena wallisii). Photo by: Proven Winners

Light:

Prefers bright indirect light. At lower light levels, growth may slow and the leaves may lose some of their vibrancy. An ideal location is near an east-facing window or positioned across the room from a west-facing window, away from direct afternoon sunlight. If you notice burnt leaf edges, your plant may be getting too much direct sun.

Temperature:

Because they hail from tropical regions, Homalomena love greenhouse-like conditions, with room temperatures between 65° to 80° F. Keep away from cold drafts, and don’t expose plants to temperatures below 60° F. Also avoid placing plants near heating or cooling vents.

Humidity:

Like most tropical plants, Homalomena flourish in humid environments, preferring a humidity level of 50% or higher. They are excellent plants for a steamy, brightly lit bathroom. In drier areas of the home, keep your plants hydrated by using a humidifier, misting the leaves regularly, or setting them on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

Soil type:

Use a loose, well-draining potting mix that has good moisture retention, such as a soilless aroid potting mix. Or amend a regular potting mix by adding orchid bark or perlite to improve drainage.

Watering:

Homalomena are finicky about their water requirements and don’t like soil that’s either too dry or too soggy. Water regularly using lukewarm water to keep the soil evenly moist, or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. To avoid waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot, make sure any excess water drains from the bottom of the pot.

Fertilizing:

Feed once per month with a liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength when your plant is actively growing in spring and summer. Withhold fertilizing during the late fall and winter months, when plant growth slows.

Pruning:

Homalomena will maintain its nice, upright shape with minimal pruning. However, to keep your plant healthy and encourage new growth, you should remove any yellowing or damaged foliage by cutting the leaf stalk at its base using a clean knife or hand pruners. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid skin contact with the sap from the cut stems.

Note that while some yellowing of older leaves is normal, yellowing of newer growth may be a sign of overwatering or exposure to drafts or cold temperatures.

Leaf care:

The large leaves of Homalomena are great dust collectors. To keep them attractive and dust-free, wipe them gently every few weeks with a damp cloth. This will also benefit your plant’s health by improving its ability to absorb light.

Repotting:

Homalomena typically needs repotting every two years, or whenever it shows signs of becoming rootbound. If you see roots emerging through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot or plant growth has slowed significantly, it's time to move your plant to a new home. Select a pot 1 to 2 inches in diameter larger than the current one, and fill it with fresh potting mix to provide a new supply of essential nutrients. The best time to repot is early spring, when your plant awakens from its winter dormancy period.

Propagation:

By division of the plant’s rhizomatous roots or by stem cuttings.

Pests and diseases:

Keep an eye out for spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and aphids. (See more about identifying and treating pests on houseplants.) Overwatering can cause fungal diseases and root rot.

Is Homalomena a philodendron?

No. Although both plants are members of the aroid family (Araceae) and share some similar features, they have distinct growth habits and leaf shapes and patterns.

Are homalomena plants easy to care for?

Yes, Homalomena are generally easy to care for and make great houseplants, as long as you meet their light, water, and humidity needs.

Can homalomena plants grow in water?

Homalomena can be grown in water, but prefers having its roots planted in well-draining soil. However, you can propagate divisions or cuttings in water and then transfer them to soil once roots develop.

How do I know if my homalomena plant is getting enough light?

Slower growth, smaller leaves, and faded variegation may be signs that your plant is receiving insufficient sunlight. Consider relocating it to a brighter location (but away from direct sun) or supplementing with grow lights, especially during the winter months.

What is the lifespan of a homalomena plant?

With proper care, your homalomena can live for 10 years or even longer. The key to good longevity is providing the right growing conditions, including adequate light, water, and humidity.

Can Homalomena be grown outdoors?

Homalomena can thrive outdoors when grown in dappled shade in regions with consistently warm temperatures and high humidity levels. They are not frost-tolerant, and should be protected from temperatures below 50° F.