The Teruno Champs Elysees is a highly sought-after aroid cultivar. Originating from Japan as part of the Terunoworld Pothos series, this plant has captivated enthusiasts with its unique aesthetic, making it a desirable addition for collectors.
Distinctive Features
The Teruno Champs Elysees boasts striking variegation, typically displaying bright yellow and green patterns on its foliage. Its leaves often feature a neon color, ranging from light green to a vibrant chartreuse. A unique characteristic of this cultivar is the presence of unusual protrusions or “gill-like” mutations on the underside of its leaves. These textured bumps contribute to its distinctive feel and visual appeal.
The leaves are elongated and can exhibit a wavy texture. The Teruno Champs Elysees is recognized for its unique color distribution and prominent textural elements on the leaf undersides. This combination of vibrant coloring and an unusual tactile surface makes the plant distinctive.
Cultivation and Care
Teruno Champs Elysees thrives in bright, indirect light, which encourages vibrant coloration. While it tolerates lower light, prolonged insufficient light may cause the lime-green hues to fade. Placing the plant within 3 to 4 feet of an unobstructed east or west-facing window is ideal without direct, harsh sunlight.
Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue for Pothos, so ensuring the soil is almost dry before rehydrating helps prevent root rot. The plant prefers a well-draining, airy potting mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and coconut chips, which facilitates proper aeration and moisture retention.
Average household temperatures and humidity levels are suitable for Teruno Champs Elysees, with humidity of 40% or more being ideal. While higher humidity can be beneficial, it is not strictly necessary. During the growing season (typically spring through summer), a balanced houseplant fertilizer can be applied monthly to support healthy growth.
Propagation Methods
Teruno Champs Elysees is commonly propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section with at least one node, the point where a leaf attaches. This node contains the dormant cells necessary for root development.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, sphagnum moss, or directly in a well-draining soil mix. For water propagation, place the cutting in clean water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every few days to maintain oxygen levels and prevent stagnation. When rooting in sphagnum moss or soil, keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged to encourage root formation. Once roots are several inches long, the cutting can be transplanted into a permanent pot.
Addressing Common Challenges
Teruno Champs Elysees may encounter common challenges, including potential variegation reversion. New leaves may appear less variegated or revert to a solid green color. Consistent bright, indirect light helps maintain the plant’s distinctive variegation. If leggy growth occurs (elongated stems with sparse leaves), it indicates insufficient light; moving the plant to a brighter location encourages more compact growth.
Common houseplant pests like spider mites or thrips may affect Teruno Champs Elysees. Regular inspection of leaves, especially the undersides, helps detect infestations early. Prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can manage these pests. Yellowing leaves, particularly on older foliage, might signal overwatering, while wilting can indicate underwatering. Adjusting the watering schedule based on soil moisture levels resolves these issues.
Availability and Sourcing
The Teruno Champs Elysees is considered a rare and hard-to-find plant, increasing its desirability among collectors. Its origin from the Terunoworld Pothos series in Japan means it is not always readily available outside its native country, leading to high demand and limited inventory. Specialized online nurseries, rare plant shops, and plant enthusiast communities are typical sources.
Due to its rarity, the price can be higher than more common Pothos varieties. When sourcing, look for reputable sellers who provide clear images of the actual plant and offer information on its health and rooting status. Inspecting the plant upon arrival for any signs of stress or damage is also important.