Red cyphomeris (Cyphomeris gypsophiloides)

Also known as: Creek Clover

Red cyphomeris, also known as Cyphomeris gypsophiloides, is a perennial herb distinguished by its slender, sprawling stems and small, pink to reddish flowers that grow in clusters. It prefers gypsum-rich soils, often found in arid and semi-arid regions. This plant thrives in open, sunny environments such as desert washes and rocky slopes. Its compact size and sparse foliage are adaptations that allow it to conserve water and endure intense sunlight, making it highly resilient to drought conditions.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Red cyphomeris

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Height

10-30 cm

Spread

15-20 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

0.5-1 cm

Flower Color

White or pale pink

Images of Red cyphomeris

Quickly Identify Red cyphomeris

Identify Cyphomeris gypsophiloides by its thin, wiry stems and small white or pink flowers that grow in clusters. The leaves are narrow and lanceolate, arranged oppositely along the stem.

Scientific Classification of Red cyphomeris

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Caryophyllales

Family

Four o'clock

Genus

Cyphomeris

Species

Red cyphomeris

Planting and Growing of Red cyphomeris

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

7-8

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Red cyphomeris?

When watering Cyphomeris gypsophiloides, aim for a deep soak that is around 200 ml. This ensures the roots receive enough moisture but aren't waterlogged, promoting healthy growth. The goal is to moisten the soil uniformly without creating puddles.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Red cyphomeris? ›

What should I do if my Red cyphomeris is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Red cyphomeris? ›

How to save an overwatered Red cyphomeris? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Red cyphomeris?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

The plant's ideal light range includes partial to full sunlight exposure, with significant benefits such as improved photosynthesis rates, fuller leaf development, increased flowering, and enhanced disease resistance.

What is the best lighting condition for Cyphomeris gypsophiloides? ›

How can I ensure Cyphomeris gypsophiloides receives its ideal light? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Cyphomeris gypsophiloides? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Red cyphomeris?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Cyphomeris gypsophiloides is between 65°F to 75°F. This range allows the plant to maintain robust growth and biochemical processes, promoting healthy foliage and bloom development. Maintaining temperatures in this optimal bracket ensures that the plant can sustain its metabolic activities efficiently without the stress encountered at the extremities of its tolerable temperature range.

What Soil is Best for Red cyphomeris?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 7 ~ 8

Cyphomeris gypsophiloides thrives in soils that offer excellent drainage. Understanding that well-draining soils prevent root rot and enhance healthy root extension is essential for this plant's vitality. Preferring calcareous soils, this plant benefits significantly from the calcium content, contributing to robust cell structure and overall plant strength, ensuring vibrant growth. Maintaining a stable, slightly alkaline pH ensures optimal nutrient uptake, vital for the plant's growth and flowering processes, ultimately promoting lush development.

How to Fertilize Red cyphomeris?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Cyphomeris gypsophiloides benefits from moderate fertilization. For liquid fertilizers, dilute the solution to half the strength recommended for typical houseplants. Apply approximately 100-150 ml of this diluted solution per plant to ensure even distribution and optimal absorption.

How to Prune Red cyphomeris?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by sterilizing your pruning shears with rubbing alcohol to prevent disease spread. Trim back any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Cut at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node to encourage new growth. If the plant is overly bushy, thin out the interior to improve air circulation. Prune to shape your Cyphomeris gypsophiloides according to your preference. Trim sides lightly to keep it compact and encourage lateral branches. This can help create a fuller appearance and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Red cyphomeris plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Before sowing, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. This helps to soften the seed coat and promotes faster germination. Use a seed tray filled with a well-draining potting mix, and scatter the seeds lightly on top of the soil. Cover lightly with soil.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut a piece approximately 10 cm in length. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting to prevent rot in the soil. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth, and plant the cutting in a pot filled with dampened potting mix.

Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, carefully transplant them to larger pots or their final garden location. Handle the seedlings by the leaves to avoid damaging the delicate stems. Ensure the soil is moist after transplanting to reduce shock.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Red cyphomeris plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Cyphomeris gypsophiloides need repotting when roots overgrow the pot, or soil looks depleted. Yellowing leaves and poor growth are signs. Best done early in its active season for minimal stress.

Select a pot slightly larger than the current one with drainage holes. This ensures healthy root growth and prevents waterlogging, which can cause root rot in Cyphomeris gypsophiloides.

Opt for well-draining sandy soil to mimic its natural habitat. This type of soil prevents water retention and encourages healthy root growth, reducing the risk of root rot.