Rougeplant
Rivina humilis · Phytolaccaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around rougeplant and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Humble Rivina, American Grape
- Family
- Phytolaccaceae
- Type
- Shrub
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen to deciduous depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn, small white or pink flowers
- Fruits
- Small decorative red berries
- Adult size
- 0.60 to 1.20 m in height
- Hardiness
- Warm climate plant (minimum 10-12 °C)
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical America
Care
Light and exposure
Place your Rivina humilis in a bright location, ideally in partial shade or bright indirect light. It tolerates direct sun but fears scorching in very hot climates. Good light promotes more abundant fruiting.
Watering
Keep the substrate moist but well-drained during active growth. Space out watering in winter or during dormancy. Avoid stagnant water which encourages root rot. Adjust frequency according to temperature and ambient humidity.
Substrate and soil
Use a light, rich mix composed of potting soil, compost and a little sand or perlite to ensure good drainage. A neutral to slightly acidic pH is recommended. The plant appreciates soils rich in organic matter.
Pruning and shaping
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, branched shape. Pinch young shoots to encourage bushiness. Remove weak or poorly placed branches to open up the structure.
Feeding
Fertilize moderately during the active growing period (spring-summer) with a balanced fertilizer or one slightly rich in potassium to promote fruiting. Reduce or stop feeding in winter.
Prevention and problems
Watch for spider mites and scale insects, especially in dry environments. Good ventilation and moderate humidity limit these risks. Avoid excess moisture on foliage and substrate to prevent fungal diseases.
Did you know?
Rivina humilis is often grown for its small, bright red berries that remain on the plant for a long time, offering very ornamental natural decoration. Although the fruit resembles a miniature cherry, it should not be eaten: it is irritating. This plant is historically used in tropical and subtropical gardens as an indoor or greenhouse plant for its decorative appearance and ease of cultivation.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- PokeweedPhytolacca americana
- Phytolacca acinosaPhytolacca acinosa
- Tropical pokeweedPhytolacca icosandra
- Guinea henweedPetiveria alliacea
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.