Beefsteak Plant (Iresine herbstii) , photo by PH Morton
Beefsteak Plant (Iresine herbstii) , photo by PH Morton
This succulent looking plant is perennial. Beefsteak Plant, also known bloodleaf plant, Latin name: Iresine herbstii, has beautiful glossy deep red leaves, They are truly eye-catching and will certainly enhance the colour of the garden.
They can be grown as indoor plants which is a bonus as beefsteak plants cannot tolerate frosty condition. So at the end of the season, in autumn, border plants can be potted and brought inside the house and planted out again when the weather turns warmer.
The leaves are variegated with red and green markings all over.
Beefsteak Plant loves the sun and high humidity. The sunnier location it is planted the redder the leaves will turn out to be. As an indoor plant it should be placed near a south facing window where it can get the sun. Placing it in a gloomy area will result in the plant becoming leggy.
To keep the plant bushy, it requires a regular trimming. Keep it well water but with good drainage. It does not like being waterlogged.
Beefsteak Plant is worth the extra care as it is a stunning addition to the garden and as an indoor plant.