The fun Carimbo is a go-to favourite because it's one of the plants that exhibit nyctinastic movement, which is a fancy way of saying its leaves dance up and down within a 24 hour cycle. Whilst a Carimbo will definitely add colour and dance to your space, it requires a bit of patience and TLC since this plant can throw an ugly tantrum if it doesn't get its way. submit arrow

Bright with a bit of shade

Bright with a bit of shade

A well-lit spot. It likes bright, indirect light or the type of light that mimics what would be found on the rainforest floor. Never put it in blazing, direct sun because its leaves can burn. Rotate it once a week to ensure even growth as its leaves tend to grow towards the sunlight.

Pale or yellow leaves mean it isn't getting insufficient light and you need to move it to a brighter spot.

Water when dry

Water when dry

The best way to water it is to give it a generous watering until water runs out of the drainage hole. Wipe away drained water because the plant doesn't like wet feet, and this can cause root rot.

Let the top layer of the soil to dry out between waterings.

Poke your finger into the soil to test its moisture level. Water only if the top inch is dry to the touch.

The aim is to keep the lower level of soil moist but not soggy. It’s a bit of experimenting to get to the right balance but don’t worry, you’ll get it after a bit of trial and error.

Start with roughly twice a week. More in the hot, summer months, less in the monsoon and cooler seasons.

Spa day, once a month

Spa day, once a month

1. Trim off dead leaves snipping closely to the base. Pull out old stumps from the base to make space for new leaves.

2. Scrape off any white mould on top of the soil. It’s usually just harmless fungi.

3. Poke holes in the soil with a chopstick to aerate it and and give your plant a bit of extra breathing room. Sprinkle a tablespoon of vitamins in the soil and massage in.

4. Shine its leaves with a damp cloth, gently removing any dust. Front and back. This not only makes your plant look nicer but helps it to soak in light more easily too.

5. Spin it around to make sure its leaves are sunned evenly as it tends to grow towards sunlight.

6. Place it in the sun for the day. Bring it in at night.

7. Clean your cork mat with soap and water or white vinegar.

Common question

Why are its leaves turning brown on the edges?

You've over-watered or under-watered the plant. Use your finger to check its moisture level rather than watering on a schedule.

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