The Puppy Plant, scientifically known as Primulina ‘Hisako’, is a houseplant known for its distinctive foliage and delicate blooms. It is also referred to by its former name, Chirita sinensis ‘Hisako’, and is a relative of the African violet. Its common name comes from the soft, fuzzy texture of its leaves, which can resemble puppy ears. Originating from subtropical Asia, this perennial herb forms a rosette of velvety, dark green leaves often veined with silver.
Caring for Your Puppy Plant
Light is crucial for the Puppy Plant’s health and flowering. It thrives in bright, indirect light, such as from an east or north-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight, as intense rays can scorch its delicate leaves.
Watering correctly prevents root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry completely between waterings. Saturate the soil until water drains from the pot bottom, but avoid standing water. Use lukewarm or room-temperature water, as cold water can shock the plant or spot leaves.
The Puppy Plant prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally 50% or higher, but tolerates lower levels. To increase moisture, use a pebble tray or humidifier. Do not mist the plant directly, as water droplets can damage its fuzzy leaves.
The Puppy Plant needs a well-draining, airy potting mix, similar to African violet blends. This often includes peat-based soil with perlite or vermiculite for drainage and aeration. This prevents waterlogging and promotes a healthy root system.
During its active growing season (spring and summer), the Puppy Plant benefits from light fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to one-quarter to one-half strength, once or twice a month. This supports growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant.
Propagating Puppy Plants
Propagating Puppy Plants is done via leaf or stem cuttings, with leaf cuttings often having a high success rate. First, select a healthy, mature leaf and use a clean, sharp tool to make the cut. Allow the cutting to air dry briefly before planting to prevent rot.
Then, insert the petiole (leaf stem) end of the cutting into a moist, well-draining potting medium. A warm, humid environment, created by covering the pot with a clear plastic dome or bag, encourages rooting and new plantlet formation. New plantlets typically emerge from the leaf cutting’s base within weeks to a couple of months.
Common Puppy Plant Problems
Puppy Plants can develop issues signaling an environmental imbalance. Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicates overwatering or underwatering. Reddish or bleached leaves suggest too much direct light. Wilting foliage can also stem from inconsistent watering, either too dry or root rot from excessive moisture.
Lack of growth or stunted development suggests insufficient light, inadequate nutrients, or being root-bound. Pests like mealy bugs and cyclamen mites can cause distorted growth or sticky residue. Fungal issues like powdery mildew (white, dusty coating) are linked to low humidity or poor air circulation, while gray mold can develop on wet leaves. Adjusting light, watering, and air circulation can address these problems.
Puppy Plant and Pet Safety
Despite its name, the Puppy Plant’s safety for pets is a common concern. Primulina ‘Hisako’ (also known as Chirita sinensis ‘Hisako’) is considered non-toxic to both dogs and cats.
However, consuming any plant material can cause mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea). Therefore, discourage pets from chewing on foliage and keep plants out of reach to prevent minor digestive upset.