Stephania erecta

Stephania erecta is a deciduous vining caudiciform native to the mountains of Thailand, where the bulbs grow completely buried and go dormant during the yearly dry season. Caudiciforms are plants that grow a uniquely plump, swollen trunk called a caudex, which helps the plant store water. Stephania erecta's caudex looks looks a lot like a potato, and when grown as a houseplant, is best displayed planted about halfway into well-draining soil.

The main attraction of this rare plant happens when this plant comes out of dormancy and produces a stunning flush of bright green parasol-shaped leaves along creeping vines. The peltate leaves remind us of pennywort and nasturtium, and combined with the caudex, the whole plant seems otherworldly. The vines of this plant look beautiful cascading from a bright shelf or trained around a trellis.

We're selling this plant as a dormant caudex to protect the tender vines.

Sizing

We offer dormant caudices at various sizes. A bigger caudex means the plant has more energy to grow vines and leaves.

How to Grow

• Plant caudex in exceedingly well-draining soil (at least 50% perlite, vermiculite and/or pumice) with the top half of the caudex exposed. We have marked the bottoms of our bulbs with a small "X".
• During active growth, water when soil is fully dry. Stephania erecta is typically dormant from December to April. During dormancy, refrain from watering.
• Stephania erecta needs bright indirect light, adequate humidity, and warmth to grow a mature vine. Use a cloche or unsealed plastic bag to make a humid microclimate that will help initiate growth.
• This plant is extremely sensitive to over-watering. Always err on the side of under-watering. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves and caudex.

What to Expect

You'll get one (1) dormant Stephania erecta in the size of your choice, ready for planting! Each caudex is a bit different, so expect this natural variation from the photos. Includes detailed care instructions.