Basket plant (Callisia fragrans)
Care, watering, light and tips for Basket plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Commelinaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Basket plant
Callisia fragrans, commonly known as Basketplant, is a perennial trailing plant belonging to the Commelinaceae family. It features glossy green, fleshy leaves growing in rosettes and long stolons from which new plantlets emerge, creating a cascading effect perfect for hanging baskets or high shelves. Its fragrant white flowers appear in winter, adding a delicate touch.
Native range
Mexico
Care tips
It thrives in bright, indirect light; intense direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Water when the top layer of the substrate feels dry to the touch, avoiding waterlogging as it is susceptible to root rot. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to leaf drop and plant death.
How to save a dying Basket plant
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing/whitish leaves, drooping stems. Dry, crispy tips indicate low humidity.
- First aid
- Check watering; if dry, water thoroughly. If soggy, repot. Increase ambient humidity.
- What kills it
- Overwatering rotting roots or lack of light. Also very dry and cold air.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's very resilient. Take healthy stem cuttings if the base is damaged.