10 - 15cm Labisia Japonica 10.5cm Pot House Plant

🌿 Labisia japonica – Description

Labisia japonica is a compact, low-growing tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Primulaceae family (formerly Myrsinaceae). This plant is mainly grown for its attractive foliage, although it may occasionally produce small flowers.

• Leaves: The plant's most striking feature is its deep green leaves, often with a glossy, velvety appearance. New growth may emerge with a slight bronze or reddish tint. The leaves are elongated, pointed, and lightly textured, with fine veining.

• Size: Typically remains small and low to the ground, making it perfect for terrariums, vivariums, or as a desk plant. Usually grows up to 15–20 cm in height and spreads slowly outward.

• Flowers: Rarely blooms indoors, but when it does, the flowers are small, tubular, and pink to pale purple—more of a curiosity than a show.

🧾 Care Guide for Labisia japonica

☀️ Light

• Prefers medium to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sun as it can scorch the delicate leaves.

• Will tolerate lower light but may grow more slowly and lose some vibrancy in leaf colour.

• Perfect candidate for a terrarium due to its light tolerance.

💧 Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

• Water when the top 1–2 cm of the soil feels dry—don’t allow it to dry out completely.

• Sensitive to both underwatering (leaf curl and browning) and overwatering (yellowing and root rot).

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 18–26°C. Avoid cold drafts or drops below 15°C.

• Humidity: Needs high humidity (60–80%) to truly thrive. In dry indoor environments, a humidifier or enclosed terrarium setup is ideal.

• Frequent misting or a pebble tray can help, but still aim for overall ambient humidity increase rather than surface wetness.

🌱 Soil

• Needs a moisture-retentive but well-draining soil mix. A good combo includes:

  • Coco coir or peat moss

  • Perlite

  • A touch of orchid bark or sphagnum moss for texture and airflow

🧴 Fertiliser

• Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced houseplant fertiliser.

• Avoid over-fertilising—this plant is sensitive to salt build-up.

🪴 Potting & Repotting

• Doesn’t need frequent repotting—only when noticeably root-bound or when growth slows.

• Choose a small pot with drainage holes to prevent excess moisture retention.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Minimal pruning needed—just remove old, yellowing, or damaged leaves.

• Regularly wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve appearance.

🐛 Common Pests & Problems

• Pests: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract fungus gnats, aphids, or spider mites in dry conditions.

• Leaf curling or browning: Usually due to low humidity or inconsistent watering.

• Leaf yellowing: May be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.

🌸 Extra Tips

• Ideal for terrarium setups, bathrooms, or any high-humidity niche in your home.

• A good choice for plant collectors who enjoy less common species with unique growth habits.