Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Stripestar’

Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Stripestar’ is a striking tropical houseplant with long, elegant leaves patterned in shades of green, often with rich burgundy-purple undersides. We love it for the colour and movement it brings to a room—its leaves naturally lift and fold as light levels change throughout the day.

Origin

Stromanthe sanguinea originates from the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where it grows beneath the forest canopy in warm, humid and gently shaded conditions. ‘Stripestar’ is a cultivated variety selected for its distinctive striped foliage.

Care Guide

• Light: Position in bright, indirect light. Too little light may reduce the leaf markings, while direct sunshine can fade or scorch the foliage.

• Watering: Keep the compost lightly and consistently moist during spring and summer. Allow the top 1–2 cm to dry before watering again.

• Water quality: Use rainwater, filtered water or cooled boiled water where possible. Stromanthe can be sensitive to the minerals and chemicals found in hard tap water.

• Winter watering: Reduce watering during autumn and winter, but do not allow the root ball to become completely dry.

• Humidity: Provide high humidity to prevent dry, curling leaf edges. Place near a humidifier or group with other houseplants, while maintaining good airflow.

• Temperature: Keep at a warm room temperature. Protect the plant from cold draughts, radiators and temperatures below 15°C.

• Compost: Use a rich but free-draining houseplant compost. Adding perlite, fine orchid bark or coco coir will improve drainage and airflow.

• Pot: Choose a pot with drainage holes and empty away any excess water that collects inside the decorative outer pot.

• Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser at half strength every four to six weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop feeding in winter.

• Cleaning: Gently wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust. Avoid using commercial leaf-shine products.

• Pruning: Remove yellow, brown or damaged leaves at the base with clean scissors. Brown tips can be carefully trimmed without cutting into healthy tissue.

• Repotting: Repot in spring every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a container only slightly larger than the current pot.

• Propagation: Divide a mature plant during repotting, ensuring that each section has healthy roots and several stems.

• Common problems: Brown edges are often caused by dry air, inconsistent watering or hard tap water. Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, while curling leaves can signal thirst, cold or excessive sunlight. Watch for spider mites, thrips and mealybugs.

Pet Safety

• Generally considered pet-safe: Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Stripestar’ is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs.

• Eating a large amount of any plant material may still cause mild digestive discomfort.

• Keep the plant away from persistent chewers to protect its delicate foliage.

• Fertilisers and pest-control treatments may not be pet-safe, so always follow the product instructions carefully.

• If your pet eats a substantial amount or develops unusual symptoms, contact your veterinary practice for advice.

Our Tip

Humidity and consistent watering are the secrets to keeping a ‘Stripestar’ looking its best. Give it bright, filtered light, use rainwater where possible and keep it away from radiators and cold draughts.

Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.

D17cm H60CM