Family: Araceae
Botanical Name: Adelomena wallisii
Common Name: Homalomena Selby
Homalomena is not a common household name, but once the news gets out about how easy this species is to care for, that might change! The variety 'Selby' has remarkable mottled foliage that gently displays varying degrees of green. The leathery leaves ovate-lanceolate leaves form from the center of the plant and arch outwards, developing into a well-rounded shape. This uncommon houseplant is relatively easy to care for as they are low light tolerant, but give them plenty of warmth and indirect sunlight during the growing season so they can produce new growth. If you see the foliage wilt, it's time to give it water. Overall, homalomena is similar in growth habit to an aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen), and they both have similar care requirements (minus the water requirements!).
Light
An actual under-story plant, the homalomena can tolerate lower light conditions in your home. Consider placing it where it receives more indirect light during the growing season for optimal growth. The difference between outdoor shade and low interior light is massive so try to give your indoor plants as much access to natural light as humanly possible! They should be kept from direct light as the leaves may scorch.
Water
It is important to keep homalomena well-watered during its active growing period, but be sure to let the water drain from the pot after watering to prevent root rot. Cut way back on watering during the winter months and allow the soil to dry out partially between watering. Learn more about how and when to water your indoor plants!
Soil
You may need to transplant your Homalomena Selby every year or so, depending on how fast it grows. We recommend using a soil mixture that is rich in organic matter, has good drainage, and is light and loose. Most bagged potting soil will be fine, but avoid potting mixes that contain moisture retaining crystals, and they can keep the soil wet for long periods, which can cause root damage.
Temperature
Temperatures between 60-90℉ are ideal! Try to keep Homalomena Selby away from cold drafts during the cold winter months!
Humidity
Homalomena prefers high humidity, so place this houseplant in a spot that has a lot of moisture in the air. Keep in mind that in many areas, winter air can be dry, so the plant may need a helpful boost from a humidifier or a pebble tray with water to help increase the dampness and offset a dry environment. Learn how to increase the humidity in the air around your indoor plants!
Fertilizer
To encourage leaf and root development, fertilize homalomena twice a month during the growing season with a complete liquid fertilizer diluted to 1/4 the recommended strength. Do not fertilize during the winter, or when there is no active growth.
Growth Rate
Homalomena Selby is a slow-medium growing plant and rises to a mature height of around 3-4'+ indoors and is properly cared for!
Pet Friend or Foe
Homalomena indoor plants are toxic! Foe!
Pro Tips
- Homalomena has deep roots so do not transplant them into shallow containers.
- If the leaf edges start turning brown, then increase the humidity with a humidifier or place the plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles.
- Homalomenas are notorious for alerting you when they need water! Their leaves will rapidly droop (sinking heart), but after a thorough soaking, their foliage should pop back up; just do not procrastinate as they are begging you for water at this point!