Ribbon Bush (Homalocladium platycladum)

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent phylloclade scorching

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Watering Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings to avoid root rot

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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to prevent stem damage

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Stem: Flat, jointed ribbon-like phylloclades that replace true leaves for photosynthesis
Leaf: Tiny scale-like true leaves that drop rapidly, leaving brown stipules at stem joints
Flower: Small, fragrant white to pale pink blooms clustered at stem nodes

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Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent weak, leggy growth

Eggshell powder top dressing：Grind dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface to add calcium without altering soil pH

Pruning

Trim overgrown or leggy stems in spring to maintain a compact, bushy shape
Remove damaged or discolored phylloclades to improve airflow and plant appearance
Pinch back stem tips to encourage branching and denser growth

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no harmful compounds present

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental foliage plant for indoor decor; used in tropical landscape design in warm climates