The Eyelash Plant (Hemionitis arifolia) is a distinctive houseplant, favored for its unique foliage and compact growth. Its characteristic leaves and texture make it an appealing addition to any home.
Understanding the Eyelash Plant
The Eyelash Plant, also known as the Heart Fern, gets its name from its appearance. Hemionitis arifolia features lush, dark green, heart-shaped leaves that emerge from nearly black stems, creating a visual contrast. This compact plant typically reaches 6 to 8 inches tall. In its natural tropical and subtropical habitat, it grows in moist, shaded environments, often as an epiphyte on trees.
Eyelash Plant Care
Light
The Eyelash Plant thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing it near a north or east-facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. While it tolerates lower light, growth may be slower, and the plant might become leggy. Consistent indirect light promotes healthy foliage.
Watering
The Eyelash Plant prefers consistently moist soil but is sensitive to waterlogging, which causes root rot. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels slightly dry, watering thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Terracotta pots are not recommended due to their moisture-wicking properties. Curling leaves may indicate insufficient moisture.
Humidity
High humidity is essential for the Eyelash Plant. Aim for at least 50% humidity, with 60-80% being optimal. To increase moisture, use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other plants. Regular misting can also help maintain humidity around the foliage.
Soil
An ideal soil mix for the Eyelash Plant is well-draining yet retains moisture. A good blend includes moisture-retentive materials like peat moss or coco coir, combined with airy components such as perlite or orchid bark. This ensures good aeration and prevents sogginess. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) is suitable.
Fertilizing
The Eyelash Plant is not a heavy feeder. During its active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength about once a month. Over-fertilization can cause nutrient burn, so adhere to a conservative feeding schedule. Organic options like compost tea or worm castings also provide gentle nutrition.
Temperature
The Eyelash Plant thrives in warm temperatures, ideally 60-85°F (15-30°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can stress the plant. A stable temperature environment is important for its health. Generally, if indoor temperatures are comfortable for people, the plant will do well.
Propagating Eyelash Plant
Propagating the Eyelash Plant is most effective through division, especially when the plant has grown into a mature clump. Division is best performed during repotting, typically in spring when the plant is actively growing.
To divide, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil to expose the root ball. Using your hands or a clean, sharp knife, separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each has healthy roots and at least one frond. Plant each new section into its own pot with a suitable well-draining potting mix. Water thoroughly to settle the soil, then place the young plants in indirect light and maintain consistent moisture until they establish new growth. While spore propagation is possible, it is generally more challenging for home growers.
Common Issues and Solutions
Eyelash Plants can exhibit specific signs when their care needs are not met. Browning leaf tips often indicate low humidity, which can be addressed by increasing ambient moisture with a humidifier or pebble tray. Yellowing leaves, especially when accompanied by mushy stems, typically signal overwatering and poor drainage, requiring a reduction in watering frequency and ensuring the pot has adequate drainage holes. Conversely, consistently dry soil can cause leaves to curl or shrivel.
Stunted growth or leaves that appear smaller than usual might suggest insufficient light or inadequate nutrients. Moving the plant to a brighter, indirect light location or applying a diluted fertilizer during the growing season can help. Pests such as mealybugs, scale, or aphids can occasionally affect Eyelash Plants. Inspecting the plant regularly and addressing infestations promptly, often by physically removing pests or using neem oil, can manage these issues.