Mikado Plant: The Fascinating World of Strobilanthes Dyerianus

Oleh Lonnie Ziemann MD May 18, 2023 Post a Comment

If you are looking for a unique and stunning plant to add to your collection, the Mikado Plant or Strobilanthes dyerianus is definitely worth considering. This plant is known for its striking metallic purple leaves that shimmer in the sunlight.

But there's more to this plant than just its beauty. In this blog post, we'll explore the fascinating world of Strobilanthes dyerianus and uncover some of the interesting facts about this rare and exotic plant.

What is the Mikado Plant?

Strobilanthes dyerianus, also known as Persian shield or simply Mikado Plant, is a tropical evergreen shrub native to Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). It belongs to the Acanthaceae family, which includes many other popular houseplants such as the Calathea, Fittonia, and Pilea.

The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide in ideal conditions. Its most distinctive feature is the iridescent purple-silver foliage that has a metallic sheen. The leaves are ovate, slightly serrated, and grow up to 6 inches long.

In summer, the Mikado Plant produces small tubular flowers that are shades of blue, purple, or white. However, the blooms are not the main attraction of this plant - it's the foliage that steals the show!

How to Care for Mikado Plant

The Mikado Plant is relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips on how to keep your Mikado Plant healthy and thriving:

Light

The Mikado Plant thrives in bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to lose their vibrant color. If your plant is not getting enough light, the leaves may turn green and lose their metallic sheen.

Water

The Mikado Plant prefers moist but well-draining soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be careful not to let the soil become waterlogged.

Temperature

The Mikado Plant prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F. It can tolerate lower temperatures but is not frost-hardy. Keep it away from cold drafts or air conditioning vents.

Humidity

The Mikado Plant thrives in high humidity environments. If you live in a dry climate, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant to increase the humidity level.

Fertilizer

The Mikado Plant does not require frequent feeding but can benefit from a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

Mikado Plant Propagation

The Mikado Plant can be propagated through stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Here's how:

Take a cutting that is 4-6 inches long with at least two sets of leaves.
Remove the bottom set of leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone.
Plant the cutting in moist potting soil and cover with plastic wrap to create a humid environment.
Keep the soil moist and in bright indirect light until roots have formed (usually within 4-6 weeks).
Once rooted, remove the plastic wrap and treat as a mature plant.

Mikado Plant Pests and Diseases

Like most houseplants, the Mikado Plant is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:

Spider Mites

These tiny pests can infest the foliage and cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing. Use a strong stream of water to wash them off the leaves or use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small white insects that feed on plant sap and leave behind a sticky residue. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. Use an insecticidal soap or rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.

Root Rot

Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot, a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul odor. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.

Mikado Plant Varieties

There are several varieties of Strobilanthes dyerianus available, each with its unique foliage color and pattern. Here are some popular ones:

Strobilanthes dyerianus 'Mauve'

This variety has purple foliage with a silvery sheen and slightly lighter edges.

Strobilanthes dyerianus 'Royal Robe'

This variety has rich dark purple foliage that almost appears black in certain lighting conditions.

Strobilanthes dyerianus 'Variegatus'

This variety has green and white variegated foliage with a slight metallic sheen.

Mikado Plant Uses and Benefits

The Mikado Plant is primarily grown for its ornamental value but has some other uses and benefits as well:

Medicinal Properties

In traditional medicine, the leaves of the Mikado Plant are used to treat skin diseases, fever, and coughs.

Pollinator Attraction

The Mikado Plant produces small flowers that attract bees and butterflies to your garden.

Air Purification

Like many houseplants, the Mikado Plant can help improve indoor air quality by removing harmful toxins from the air.

The Mikado Plant is a unique and stunning plant that can add a touch of exotic beauty to any garden or indoor space. With its metallic purple-silver foliage, easy care requirements, and numerous varieties, it's no wonder why this plant has become so popular in recent years. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just ing, the Mikado Plant is definitely worth considering for your collection.

FAQs about Mikado Plant

Q1. Is Mikado Plant toxic to pets?

A1. Yes, the Mikado Plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets or consider choosing a non-toxic alternative.

Q2. Can Mikado Plant be grown indoors?

A2. Yes, the Mikado Plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright indirect light and high humidity.

Q3. How often should I fertilize my Mikado Plant?

A3. Fertilize your Mikado Plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Q4. Should I prune my Mikado Plant?

A4. You can prune your Mikado Plant to control its size or shape. Prune back any leggy or overgrown stems in spring or summer.

Q5. Does Mikado Plant need to be repotted?

A5. Repot your Mikado Plant every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix and a container that is slightly larger than the current one.