Syngonium 'Berry'

Syngoniums are total collector’s items, there is so much wonderful variation in the foliage. This one is special as they blush pink and purple with maturity across silver and lime lines. The colour evolves over time.

You can pinch yours regularly, to keep it as a low bush without any need for support, or you can allow the stems to thrill and spill from the pot/hanging baskets. Or you can add a growing frame/stick and allow them to climb.

As well as being known as the Arrowhead Plant or Vine, Syngonium is also recognised as Goosefoot.

SIZE: 10-50cm x 10-40cm (it depends where and how you grow them)

I SEE THE LIGHT: They grow best in a bright, indirect light – if you need a light to read by during the day in their position, it is too dark. They will grow happily in artificial light, they just need 8-10 hours a day – so perfect for the office. You will get the best leaf colour in a bright light position.

TIME FOR A DRINK: Average water requirements. Water thoroughly, then allow the top couple of centimetres of the soil to dry out before watering again – test this with your finger, or use a fancy water metre if you want to keep your hands clean.

Syngonium will grow best with some humidity. If you live in a cold climate, your heating in winter might dry the plant out (the leaf tips will turn brown, or just drop off). You can provide some humidity for your beloved plant, by placing them over a plate with rocks and water, this will form humidity around the plant. Or if you want to get very fancy and grow a few of these tropical treats, a humidifier is a good investment – they are also good for you. You can also spritz the leaves ever so often, or grow the plant in a steamy bathroom. Oh and don’t forget terrariums!

I WILL SURVIVE: Add a diluted liquid fertiliser every other watering over spring/summer, just follow the directions on the pack. Snip out any spent or damaged leaves to keep your plant happy and healthy.

Gently clean the leaves with a soft cloth or tissue to keep them free of dust. Repot in spring as the roots fill the pot, gradually increasing the size of the pot.

If you’d like a smallish compact bush, you can tip prune/pinch regularly. Or you could let them trail/climb if you are after a larger, leaner plant.