Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' - Care Guide and Information

The Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei', also called 'Purple Sword' (often sold as Homalomena 'Purple Sword' ), is a rare and striking indoor plant known for its deep green leaves with silver splashes and stunning maroon undersides.  This unique foliage makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a truly eye-catching houseplant to their collection. As a rare tropical plant, it's perfect for creating a vibrant, natural decor that will elevate any indoor space while offering some air-purifying benefits.

Physical Characteristics

The leaves of Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' are elliptical and grow up to 15 cm in length. The top side features a mix of muted greyish-green tones with dark green blotches, while the undersides and petioles are rich purplish-red, adding a dramatic effect. This unique combination of colors makes Apoballis 'Lavallaei' a standout feature in any indoor garden or plant collection.
 

Care Guide for Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei'
Caring for Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' is simple, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts. Here’s everything you need to know to help your Apoballis thrive indoors:

Light Requirements: Apoballis 'Lavallaei' prefers bright, indirect light to keep its vibrant leaf colors. It can tolerate lower light conditions, but bright indirect light is ideal. Place it near an east or north-facing window for the best light exposure without the risk of leaf burn.

Ideal Placement: Choose a location with indirect light, such as a plant stand or shelf near a window. The maroon undersides of the leaves create a stunning visual effect when displayed properly, adding a unique touch to your home decor.

Watering Tips: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot. Use filtered or room-temperature water for best results, and consider the weight of the pot as an indicator of when it needs water.

Humidity: Apoballis 'Lavallaei' loves high humidity. If indoor humidity is low, use a humidity tray, group it with other plants, or place a small humidifier nearby. Proper air circulation is also important to prevent fungal issues—using a fan occasionally helps keep the air moving.

Temperature Requirements: Maintain a temperature range between 18-25°C, and avoid temperatures below 15°C to ensure consistent growth and vibrant leaf colors.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining, loose potting mix. A combination of peat-free organic matter, perlite, and coco coir works well. Terracotta pots help with moisture regulation, but make sure any pot you use has good drainage.

Fertilizing: Feed monthly with a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Slow-release fertilizer is also effective for providing consistent nutrients over time. Remember to fertilize during propagation to support healthy growth.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a slightly larger pot that provides good drainage to encourage healthy root development. Consider using terracotta or plastic pots to balance moisture retention.

Propagation: Apoballis 'Lavallaei' can be propagated by dividing the plant during repotting or taking stem cuttings. Ensure each section has roots and leaves before planting. Root cuttings in water or moist soil, and place them in indirect light to encourage root development.

Semi- and Hydroponics: This plant can also thrive in semi-hydroponic setups using LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) or similar mediums. Make sure the roots have access to oxygen and refresh the nutrient solution every 2-3 weeks. Use balanced hydroponic nutrients for lush leafy growth.

Pruning: Remove damaged or yellow leaves to encourage new growth. Use clean scissors and make cuts just above a leaf node to promote new shoots. Regular pruning keeps the plant looking full and vibrant.
 

Common Problems and Solutions
Even with the best care, Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' may sometimes face challenges. Here’s how to solve common issues:

Yellowing Leaves: Usually indicates overwatering. Ensure your soil drains well and allow it to dry out between waterings. Yellowing can also be due to a lack of nutrients—make sure you're fertilizing regularly.

Browning Leaf Tips: Low humidity often causes browning tips. Increase humidity around the plant, but avoid letting it sit in standing water.

Leaf Discoloration: If the leaves are losing their vibrant color, it likely needs more light. Move the plant to a brighter spot with indirect sunlight.

Leaf Curling: Curling leaves can indicate underwatering or very low humidity. Check moisture levels and adjust as necessary.

Pests: Look out for spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Good airflow also helps keep pests away.

Root Rot: Caused by overwatering. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and allow the topsoil to dry between waterings. If rot develops, trim the affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
 

Etymology
The name Apoballis comes from the Greek words "apo," meaning "away from," and "ballo," meaning "to throw," possibly referencing its seed dispersal mechanism. The epithet 'acuminatissima' describes the sharply pointed leaf tips, while 'Lavallaei' likely honors an important horticultural figure.
 

FAQs:
How often should I water my Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei'? Water when the top 2-3 cm of the soil is dry. Make sure the soil drains well to avoid root rot.

What kind of light does Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' need? Bright, indirect light is ideal. Placing it near an east or north-facing window helps mimic its natural tropical environment while avoiding direct sunlight.

Is Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' safe for pets? It’s best to keep this plant out of reach of pets, as ingestion can cause mild irritation, such as drooling, vomiting, or stomach discomfort.

What should I do if my Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' stops growing? Slow growth is often due to insufficient light, nutrients, or low temperatures. Ensure it’s getting bright, indirect light, feed it monthly, and keep temperatures between 18-25°C.


Ready to add the rare Apoballis acuminatissima 'Lavallaei' to your plant collection? Order today for safe delivery and bring home this stunning houseplant to make your indoor garden truly unique!