King of Hearts (Homalomena wallisii)
Main Points:
The King of Hearts is as attractive as it is proficient at removing ammonia from the atmosphere. (Which is very). It is not the easiest plant to maintain, but enthusiasts hope that one day a cultivar able to withstand a reasonable amount of neglect will grace the livingrooms of all beginner plant caretakers all over the place.
The King of Hearts is related to the philodendron, and its showy green foliage is often displayed in public areas, cared for by professional interior plantscapers who know how to properly care for this temperamental plant.
Care:
Semi-shade to shade.
Avoid drafts, excessive (beyond 75 F) heat, under-watering, and saying mean things about the plant within vibrational hearing distance. This little guy is sensitive.
If the King of Hearts is kept in a spot that is too warm and dry, spider mites might infest.
Keep the soil evenly moist with soft water (if possible, rain water). Feed with a weak concentration of fertilizer throughout the growing season. Pot in a standard commercial potting soil in a container with adequate drainage.
