Stephania Erecta

Stephania erecta is one of the most unusual houseplants around, grown from a large potato-like caudex (tuber) that sends up delicate vines covered in perfectly round lily pad-like leaves. Native to parts of Southeast Asia, it's prized for its sculptural appearance and makes a striking statement plant even when dormant.

The large exposed caudex stores water and nutrients, allowing the plant to survive long dry periods. During the growing season it produces slender climbing stems with circular green leaves. In winter, or when stressed, it may naturally drop all its leaves and enter dormancy.

Plant Care 

Light: Bright indirect light; ideally, this plant should have a little morning or evening sun, so an east or west window is ideal.

Watering: Let this plant dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering will kill it quickly. Do not water at all during winter months. 

Temperature: 15C-27C is the ideal range for this plant, with a slight dip in evening temperatures that are beneficial to the plant. 

Potting: Our Savvy Succa mix is a good choice for this plant. You should keep it snug in its pot and plant the bulb or caudex no more than halfway down into the soil.

Hot tips: This plant will go dormant in the cooler months. You will know dormancy is beginning as it may drop its leaves (or it may keep them, in which case leave them). During the winter months/dormancy, keep your plant or caudex in a cool and dry place until spring. To bring your plant out of dormancy, soak your caudex for 24 hours and place it in a bright and warm space. This plant enjoys high humidity so could be a great choice for a cabinet :)  

Pet Friendly: NO