Callisia repens ‘Rosato’, also known as the Pink Turtle Vine or Pink Callisia, is a charming trailing houseplant adored for its soft pastel colouring and dense, cascading growth. A member of the Commelinaceae family and native to Central and South America, this variegated form of Callisia repens has become a favourite for plant lovers who enjoy compact, colourful, easy-care trailing plants.

Its tiny, spoon-shaped leaves are a beautiful mix of blush pink, pastel lilac, creamy white, and mint green, creating a dreamy, candy-like appearance. The leaves grow closely along fine stems, forming a lush, hanging mat of delicate colour. Under bright, indirect light, the pink tones intensify, giving the plant a fresh, vibrant, almost marshmallow-like glow. Perfect for shelves, hanging pots, terrariums, and desktops, Callisia ‘Rosato’ adds instant charm and softness to any space.

Pretty, compact, and wonderfully ornamental, this plant offers maximum visual impact with minimal effort — ideal for beginners and collectors alike.

Callisia repens ‘Rosato’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain its pink variegation. It tolerates medium light, but leaves may turn greener. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch the delicate pastel foliage.

Watering

Keep the soil lightly moist, allowing the top 2–3 cm to dry between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering may lead to dry, crispy edges. Water less frequently in winter, but never allow the plant to fully dry out.

Temperature and Humidity

Temperature: Prefers 18–26 °C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 12 °C, as Callisia is sensitive to cold.
Humidity: Average household humidity is fine, but a bit of extra humidity helps keep the foliage lush. Avoid misting directly — instead, place near other tropicals or on a pebble tray.

Soil and Potting

Use a well-draining, light potting mix, such as a blend of compost, perlite, and a little coco coir. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the soil. Keep the pot slightly snug — overly large pots hold too much moisture.

Feeding

Feed every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser. Avoid overfeeding, which can reduce variegation.

Pruning and Maintenance

Trim leggy growth regularly to maintain fullness and encourage bushier branching. Remove yellowing or dried leaves to keep the plant tidy. You can easily propagate stem cuttings to create a fuller pot.

Growth and Maturity

A fast grower reaching 10–15 cm tall and up to 40–50 cm trailing length. With regular trimming, it creates a dense, cascading mound of pink-and-green foliage.

Common Issues

• Browning tips: Underwatering or low humidity.

• Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Leggy stems: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Occasionally affected by aphids or spider mites — treat promptly.

Background and Benefits

Callisia repens grows along forest floors and rocky areas in the Americas, thriving in warm, bright conditions. The ‘Rosato’ (pink variegated) form is a cultivated variant prized for its unusual pastel colouring and compact size.

It’s pet-friendly, easy to propagate, and ideal for small spaces — a great option for beginners, terrariums, or decorative accents. Symbolically, its gentle colours evoke calm, sweetness, and comfort.

Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect light; enhances pink tones

• Water: Keep lightly moist; allow top few cm to dry

• Temperature: 18–26 °C; avoid below 12 °C

• Humidity: Average; slight boost beneficial

• Soil: Light, well-draining mix – compost, perlite, coir

• Feed: Every 4–6 weeks in growing season

• Growth: 10–15 cm tall; 40–50 cm trailing; pink, lilac, white, and green variegated leaves

⚠️ Toxicity note: Mildly toxic if ingested by pets; may cause stomach upset.

Styling Tip

Display Callisia ‘Rosato’ in a small hanging planter, decorative bowl, or on a shelf where its pink foliage can cascade freely. Pair with deep green plants like Philodendron ‘Micans’ or Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’ to highlight its pastel charm. For a soft, feminine aesthetic, use white or blush-toned ceramic pots — perfect for bedrooms, bright kitchens, or home offices.