The Mattais plant is a captivating addition to any indoor garden. Its unique visual appeal and manageable care requirements make it a sought-after specimen for both novice and experienced growers.
Mattais Plant Characteristics
The Mattais plant grows to an average height of 18 to 24 inches with a similar spread. Its distinguishing feature is its foliage, characterized by deeply lobed, almost hand-shaped leaves. These leaves emerge in a vibrant chartreuse green, gradually maturing to a deeper emerald hue. The leaf surface possesses a subtle velvety texture, with each lobe outlined by a delicate, contrasting reddish-brown margin. The plant maintains a compact, bushy growth habit, making it suitable for various indoor settings.
Mattais Plant Care
Light Requirements
The Mattais plant thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. An east-facing window, or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window, often provides ideal exposure. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, leading to faded colors or brown patches. Conversely, insufficient light may result in leggy growth and a dulling of its characteristic leaf coloration. Rotating the plant every few weeks helps ensure even growth and consistent light exposure on all sides.
Watering Needs
Consistent moisture is important for the Mattais plant, but it does not tolerate soggy soil. Allow the top inch or two of the potting mix to dry out before watering again; check this by inserting a finger into the soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while prolonged dryness will cause the leaves to wilt and potentially crisp at the edges. Ensure proper drainage from the pot to prevent water accumulation at the bottom.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix is suitable for the Mattais plant. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and a small amount of compost or orchid bark provides excellent aeration and drainage while retaining adequate moisture. The pot should have drainage holes to facilitate water exit. While Mattais plants appreciate stable conditions, they do not mind being slightly pot-bound before requiring a larger container.
Temperature and Humidity
Mattais plants prefer average room temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 78°F (18°C-26°C). They are sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can stress the plant. High humidity, around 50-60%, mimics their natural environment and encourages lush growth. Grouping plants, using a pebble tray with water, or employing a room humidifier can help maintain adequate humidity levels, especially in drier indoor environments.
Fertilization
During the active growing season, typically spring and summer, the Mattais plant benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, every two to four weeks. Reduce or cease fertilization during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn, appearing as crispy leaf edges.
Propagating Mattais
Propagating the Mattais plant is done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two to three leaves and a node, making a clean cut just below the node, as new roots emerge here. Place the cutting in a small container of moist, well-draining potting mix or directly into water. If rooting in soil, ensure the node is buried, keeping the medium consistently moist with warm, indirect light. For water propagation, change the water every few days to prevent stagnation; roots typically appear within a few weeks, allowing transplant into its permanent pot.
Common Mattais Plant Problems
Common issues with Mattais plants include yellowing leaves (often from overwatering or poor drainage) and brown, crispy leaf edges (signaling low humidity or underwatering). Ensure the soil dries adequately between waterings, the pot has sufficient drainage, and adjust humidity or watering as needed. Stunted growth or small leaves can suggest insufficient light or a lack of nutrients, prompting a review of placement and fertilization. Pest infestations, such as spider mites or mealybugs, also affect the plant; regularly inspect leaves and stem joints for signs. If detected, gently wipe them off with a damp cloth or treat with an insecticidal soap solution to maintain plant health.