Purple Waffle Plant

The Purple Waffle Plant enjoys regulated watering as it prefers the soil to remain slightly moist, but not overly wet or dry. It’s best to water the plant thoroughly and then wait for the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain before replacing the plant in its pot.

The Purple Waffle Plant prefers bright, indirect light and cannot tolerate direct sunlight. Any room that gets bright, indirect direct light makes a great home for this houseplant. If the Purple Waffle Plant is placed in too dim of a location, it may become leggy and grow tall instead of bushy.

The Purple Waffle Plant requires temperatures between 68°F - 80°F (20°C - 27°C). During the winter months, it is best to place this plant in a warmer location that does not go below 68°F (20°C).

The Purple Waffle Plant enjoys high humidity; however, it can tolerate medium levels of humidity if the temperatures are on the cooler side and it is not placed inside a drafty area. Any room with temperatures above 70°F (21°C) and regular humidity levels is perfect for this plant. Mist the leaves periodically or use a humidifier.

The Purple Waffle Plant prefers a well-draining potting mix that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. A good mix could contain a combination of one part bark, one part peat moss, one part perlite and/or vermiculate, and a generous amount of organic mulch material.

Fertilizing the Purple Waffle Plant is not needed; however, a light application of a general-purpose water-soluble fertilizer or a water-soluble, liquid, or organic fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the spring and summer months is beneficial. Fertilize monthly during the active growing seasons, and avoid fertilizing during the winter or when the plant is not actively growing.

The Purple Waffle Plant is generally pest resistant, however it may become affected by aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, or whiteflies. If the leaves are spotted with insect activity, use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap and a soft cloth to remove the pests. Try to avoid using chemical insecticides as they may cause damage to the plant.

The Purple Waffle Plant should be repotted every 2 to 3 years in the spring. When repotting, it is important to use a pot that is slightly larger than its current pot and a well-draining potting mix. Look for slightly acidic potting mix with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.

Occasional pruning is recommend. If the stem of the Purple Waffle Plant becomes slender, it can be cut back and further pruned if desired. Each stem can be cut above a node, ideally close to another leaf node in the same branch, as this encourages lateral growth. Don't prune more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Mulching around the Purple Waffle Plant can help maintain moisture, provide nutrients, and control weed growth. Any type of organic mulch can be used such as bark, pine needles, or leaves.

The Purple Waffle Plant can easily be propagated using stem cuttings. Take 3 inch cuttings from the end of the stem. Make sure the cutting includes a leaf node, and remove all of the leaves from the lower part of the stem. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone, and then place it in a pot filled with damp, sterile, soil-less potting mix. Keep the cuttings lightly moist and in bright, indirect light until well-rooted and then gradually introduce the cuttings to more light.

No support is needed for the Purple Waffle Plant; its stems are strong and can grow on their own.

Purple Waffle Plant does not have a true rest period; however, the plant will start to slow down and become less active in the winter months. During this time it is best to reduce misting, decrease fertilization, and allow the plant to go slightly dryer between waterings.

The Purple Waffle Plant is considered toxic to humans and pets if ingested.