Butterfly Plant (Christia obcordata)

Butterfly Plant

Christia obcordata

Delicate butterfly-shaped leaves dance in gentle breezes. Low-growing herbaceous perennial; common names: butterfly plant, swallowtail plant.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid harsh midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
💧
Watering Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; allow the top 1 cm of substrate to dry between waterings
🌡️
Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; avoid temperatures below 12°C to prevent leaf drop and stunted growth
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Obcordate (butterfly-shaped) compound leaves, pale green with darker contrasting veining
  • Flower: Small, pale pink to white pea-like blooms in axillary racemes
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes when in contact with moist soil
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent moisture; mist foliage to boost ambient humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days, dilute 1:20 with water, and apply as a root drench; avoid leaving solid peels in soil to prevent odor and pest issues
Pruning
  • Pinch back growing tips in spring to encourage bushier, compact growth
  • Trim leggy stems to maintain a neat, trailing habit
  • Remove yellow or damaged leaves regularly to improve airflow and appearance
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental hanging basket plant or tropical ground cover