Turtle Vine (Callisia repens)

Turtle Vine

Callisia repens

Trailing stems spill soft green like a living tapestry. Low-growing evergreen herbaceous perennial; common names: turtle vine, inch plant.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade; avoid intense midday direct sun that can scorch delicate leaves
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Watering Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil dries completely; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives at 18–25°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to prevent leaf browning
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small oval succulent green leaves arranged alternately; variegated cultivars have silver or purple edged foliage
  • Flower: Tiny, fragrant white star-shaped flowers in axillary clusters
  • Stem: Slender trailing stems that root at nodes when in contact with moist soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy, sparse growth

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 fully composted banana peel in 1L water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushier, fuller growth
  • Trim leggy stems to maintain compact, mat-forming habit
  • Remove yellow or damaged leaves to improve airflow and appearance
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental hanging basket plant; outdoor ground cover in warm climates