Red spiderling
Boerhavia diffusa · Nyctaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant red spiderling: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Spiderling, Spreading Boerhavia
- Family
- Nyctaginaceae
- Plant type
- Annual to perennial herbaceous plant
- Adult height
- 20 to 60 cm tall
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn (tiny pink or white flowers)
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green
- Hardiness
- Tropical plant, frost-sensitive (freezes below 10°C)
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions of America, Africa and Asia
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Water regularly in summer, gradually reducing in autumn. In pots, let the substrate dry out slightly between waterings to avoid root rot.
Light exposure
Place the plant in full light or semi-shade for optimal growth. It tolerates bright situations but appreciates protection from the most intense rays in very hot climates. Varied exposure promotes more abundant flowering.
Soil and substrate
Use well-draining, light substrate, a mix of potting soil and sand or perlite. Soil rich in organic matter promotes growth, but avoid stagnant water accumulation which could cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer every 15 days during the growing period (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn and winter. Excess fertilizer can promote foliage development at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch the tips of young stems to encourage branching and a more compact shape. Remove spent flowers to extend flowering. Regularly clean up dead or damaged leaves.
Diseases and pests
Watch for spider mites and aphids, particularly in dry air. Excess humidity can promote fungal diseases (powdery mildew, rot). Ensure good air circulation and avoid excessive leaf wetting.
Did you know?
Boerhavia diffusa is also called 'spreading boerhavia' and has long been used in traditional medicine in its native regions. Its success in global propagation reveals a surprisingly cosmopolitan plant: it has naturalized on all tropical and subtropical continents, forming a remarkable example of adaptation to disturbed environments.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Scarlet spiderlingBoerhavia coccinea
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.