Queen of hearts (Homalomena rubescens)

Also known as: Queen of Hearts, Emerald Gem

The Queen of Hearts plant, often recognized for its distinctive heart-shaped leaves, features glossy foliage and red stems that catch the eye. This tropical evergreen is well-suited for container growth, making it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. Adapted to thrive under the forest canopy, it flourishes in the indirect sunlight commonly found in homes. However, caution is advised as its sap can cause skin irritation.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Queen of hearts

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

75 cm

Leaf Color

Green, with red or burgundy undersides

Flower Size

1-2 cm

Flower Color

Pale yellow to white

Images of Queen of hearts

Quickly Identify Queen of hearts

Identify Homalomena rubescens by its heart-shaped, glossy green leaves with red or burgundy undersides and stems. The plant also has a distinct, almost spicy aroma when the leaves are crushed.

Scientific Classification of Queen of hearts

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Alismatales

Family

Arum

Genus

Emerald Gem Plant

Species

Queen of hearts

Planting and Growing of Queen of hearts

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

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Queen of hearts?

Homalomena rubescens appreciates a consistent moisture level in its soil. It's crucial to water until you notice the water starting to drain from the bottom of the pot. This usually equates to approximately 500 milliliters per watering, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moist but not waterlogged.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Queen of hearts? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Queen of hearts?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2 to 4 hours

Partial sun or full shade is ideal for Homalomena rubescens. The best light encourages healthier, vibrant foliage without the risk of burn, ensuring robust growth and resilience over time.

What type of light is best for Homalomena rubescens? ›

Where should I position my Homalomena rubescens in my home or garden? ›

How can I ensure my Homalomena rubescens gets the ideal amount of light? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Queen of hearts?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Homalomena rubescens is between 65°F and 75°F. In this environment, the plant can maintain optimal physiological processes such as photosynthesis and respiration, promoting healthy growth and foliage development.

What Soil is Best for Queen of hearts?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Homalomena rubescens thrives in well-drained soil which allows water to pass through swiftly, avoiding waterlogging. This is crucial as it prevents root rot and ensures healthy root development. Soil rich in organic matter provides essential nutrients that support the plant's growth and vibrant foliage. This enriches the plant's overall vigor, promoting lush, healthy leaves. The soil should retain some moisture but not stay soggy. Consistent moisture levels are vital to prevent wilting and ensure the plant maintains its humidity needs, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat.

How to Fertilize Queen of hearts?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Homalomena rubescens should receive a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. For liquid fertilizers, use about 1/4 of the labeled strength mixed with water during watering. For slow-release fertilizers, apply one tablespoon per six-inch pot every four months, ensuring even distribution around the root zone.

How to Prune Queen of hearts?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Homalomena rubescens typically has a bush-like growth pattern. It develops broad, attractive leaves that need periodic trimming to maintain shape. Start by examining the plant to understand its natural structure; this will guide your pruning to enhance its aesthetic appearance. Prior to pruning, gather essential tools: sharp pruning shears and sanitized wipes. Sharp shears ensure clean cuts, reducing the risk of disease. Sanitizing tools between cuts is crucial to prevent transferring potential pathogens. Begin pruning Homalomena rubescens by removing any dead or yellowing leaves at the base without cutting into the main stem. Next, trim overgrown stems to desired length, cutting just above a leaf node to encourage new growth direction on this tropical plant. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Queen of hearts plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Summer

Choose a healthy plant without signs of disease or pest infestation. This lays a strong foundation for your new plant, ensuring that the propagated sections are likely to thrive.

Make a clean cut of 4-6 inches in length, preferably below a node. It's crucial to remove any lower leaves to prevent them from rotting when planted in the soil or medium.

Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water it thoroughly. Ensure the cuttings are upright and stable; this promotes optimal contact with the soil and subsequent root growth.

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How to Repot Queen of hearts plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Homalomena rubescens should be repotted when you notice roots extending from the drainage holes or when the growth noticeably slows down. Spring and summer are ideal seasons as the plant is actively growing during these times, making it resilient to the transplant shock.

Opt for a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This offers sufficient space for growth without causing excess soil moisture retention. A pot with proper drainage holes is essential to prevent root rot, ensuring your Homalomena stays healthy and vibrant.

Use a well-draining potting mix tailored for tropical houseplants. Incorporate materials like perlite or orchid bark to enhance aeration and drainage, which prevents water-logging issues that could lead to root decay, providing a robust environment for roots.

Toxicity of Queen of hearts

Is Queen of hearts toxic to humans?

The Queen of Hearts plant possesses a mild toxicity to humans, primarily when ingested. This entire plant has calcium oxalate, which is responsible for its toxic characteristics. Consuming any part of the Queen of Hearts can lead to various symptoms due to the calcium oxalate. These symptoms may encompass a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, and difficulties in swallowing, with potential respiratory issues arising if swelling blocks the airway. Furthermore, ingestion may cause gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is essential for individuals to understand these dangers to mitigate the risk of accidental poisoning, particularly since the entire plant could be mistakenly consumed despite its toxicity.

Is Queen of hearts toxic to cat?

The Queen of Hearts plant poses a moderate risk of toxicity to cats. If a cat accidentally consumes any portion of this plant, it can result in poisoning. The entire plant is comprised of calcium oxalate, which may cause physical discomfort in cats. This discomfort typically arises from the interaction of calcium oxalate with the tissues it encounters. Should such an event occur, it is essential to quickly obtain veterinary assistance to safeguard the cat's health and well-being.

Is Queen of hearts toxic to dog?

The Queen of Hearts plant is recognized for having a mild toxicity level that can impact dogs. When dogs inadvertently consume any part of the Queen of Hearts, they may face the risk of poisoning due to the presence of calcium oxalate within the plant. All sections of the plant, including leaves, stems, and roots, contain these harmful compounds. Signs that may manifest following a dog’s consumption of Queen of Hearts include oral irritation, excessive salivation, vomiting, and challenges with swallowing. It is essential for dog owners to keep a vigilant eye on their pets and restrict their access to Queen of Hearts. Should a dog ingest any portion of this plant, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure appropriate treatment and management of symptoms.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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