Most people tend to opt for low-maintenance plants due to their busy lifestyles, and one such popular choice is the betel pepper plant. If you’re looking for an alternative that’s just as easy to care for but offers a splash of color, consider the Lewisia, commonly known as the Lo Vi flower.
Lewisia, also known scientifically as Lewisia rediviva, is a perennial plant native to North America. It grows to a modest height of about 25cm, making it ideal for potting and displaying indoors or on balconies.
The Lo Vi flower is a succulent with oval-shaped, smooth leaves resembling those of a jade plant. It bears a subtle fragrance and blooms almost year-round with a vibrant array of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and white. As the flowers wither, they form fruits.
The Lo Vi flower’s low-growing nature makes it perfect for adding a pop of color to your living space. Its bright, eye-catching hues will undoubtedly enhance the aesthetics of your home or balcony.
How to Grow and Care for the Lo Vi Flower
This flower is remarkably easy to cultivate, and propagation can be done through seed sowing or cuttings. For seed sowing, use freshly harvested seeds as they quickly lose their viability. Simply scatter the seeds over the soil and cover them with a thin layer of earth before watering.
If you choose to propagate through cuttings, use a sharp knife to make your cut and allow the cut end to callous over. Then, dip it into a rooting hormone solution to increase the chances of successful rooting before potting it into a soil medium. Place the potted cutting in a cool, shaded area, and soon enough, roots will develop.
To ensure year-round blooming, here are some essential care tips for your Lo Vi flower:
– Soil: Similar to other succulents, the Lo Vi flower thrives in well-aerated, porous soil with excellent drainage. Mix garden soil with leaf mold, pearl stones, and a small amount of slow-release fertilizer for the ideal growing medium.
– Light: Sufficient light is crucial for the healthy development of the Lo Vi flower. However, it should be shielded from intense sunlight and excessive heat during the summer. Place it in a shaded area to prevent poor growth, leaf discoloration, root rot, or the development of black spots.
– Watering: The Lo Vi flower is not water-demanding, and overwatering can lead to root rot. Only water when the soil is dry, and direct your watering efforts towards the soil, avoiding the leaves and flowers.