LIGHT

• Requires bright, indirect light to achieve the best metallic purple coloration.
• An East or West-facing window is ideal.
• Insufficient light will cause the leaves to lose their deep purple color and revert to dull green.
• A few hours of direct morning sun can intensify the color but be careful of afternoon sun, which can burn.

WATER

• Prefers to be kept consistently moist and is not drought-tolerant.
• Water thoroughly when the top of the soil is just beginning to feel dry to the touch.
• Underwatering will cause the leaves to wilt dramatically and crisp up.
• Ensure excellent drainage to prevent the soil from becoming soggy.

SOIL

• Needs a rich, well-draining potting mix that retains moisture.
• A blend of standard potting soil with generous peat moss or coco coir will maintain the necessary moisture levels.

GROWTH HABIT

• Ideal conditions: High humidity (50%+), warm temperatures (65-75F), and consistent moisture.
• Growth rate & size: Growth rate is fast. It grows as an upright, bushy shrub, reaching 1-3 feet tall indoors.

PROPAGATING

• Propagates easily from stem tip cuttings taken in spring or summer.
• Root cuttings in water or moist potting mix.
• Cuttings are best rooted in a warm, humid environment.

PRUNING

• Pruning is essential to prevent the plant from becoming tall and leggy.
• Pinch back the growing tips frequently (especially in spring) to encourage bushier, compact growth.
• Pruning also provides cuttings for propagation.

REPOTTING

• Repot when the plant is root-bound, typically every 1-2 years due to its fast growth.
• Repot in spring or early summer.
• Because they are often grown as an annual outdoors, many indoor growers prefer to simply take cuttings and discard the old, leggy mother plant.

FERTILIZING

• Feed regularly during the spring and summer growing season (monthly).
• Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.

FLOWERING

• Produces small, pale violet or white flowers on a spike, typically in late fall or winter.
• The flowers are not showy and are sometimes pinched off to direct energy into the vibrant foliage.

TOXICITY

• Persian Shield is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.

PRO TIPS

• High humidity helps maintain the leaves' vibrancy and prevents brown tips.
• If the plant wilts, water immediately; it is highly susceptible to drying out.
• The plant naturally loses its vibrancy as it matures; frequently starting new plants from cuttings is the best way to maintain the most colorful specimens.