Dorstenia brasiliensis
Dorstenia brasiliensis
Brazilian Dorstenia
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Description
Dorstenia brasiliensis is a quirky, low-growing member of the fig family with odd, disk-like “carpet” flowers that pop up almost year-round. It thrives in bright shade, warm temperatures, and airy soil, making a fun, compact houseplant for collectors who enjoy unusual blooms and textures.
Common Names
Brazilian DorsteniaCarpet FlowerShield FlowerBrazilian Shield Flower
Context
nativeRegion
Southeastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest understory) and parts of tropical South America.
usdaZones
11–12 outdoors; grow indoors elsewhere.
companionPlants
Peperomia, Pilea, Begonia, Fittonia, Selaginella
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental and a botanical curiosity; reported in Brazilian folk traditions; often used for teaching unusual floral morphology.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light or dappled shade; 2–4 hours of gentle morning sun is fine. Avoid harsh midday sun.
WateringKeep lightly moist in active growth; let the top 1–2 cm of mix dry between waterings. Reduce slightly in cooler months; never waterlog.
SoilLoose, fast-draining mix (e.g., 40% fine bark, 30% perlite/pumice, 30% peat/coir). Use a shallow pot with excellent drainage.
FertilizerLight feeder. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength monthly in spring–summer; little to none in winter.
HumidityPrefers 50–70% but tolerates 40%. Increase with a tray or room humidifier if air is very dry.
TemperatureIdeal 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from cold; avoid drops below 55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitLow, sub-succulent herb forming a basal rosette; can clump over time.
Mature Size6–10 in tall, 6–12 in spread (15–25 cm tall, 15–30 cm wide).
Growth RateModerate with warmth and even moisture.
BloomingSmall, green to brown star-like disk inflorescences appear intermittently year-round in warm, bright conditions; can self-seed by ejecting seeds.
DormancyLight winter rest; growth slows and some leaf drop may occur in cooler, drier conditions.
Propagation
MethodsSeed (self-sown or collected), Division of clumps/rhizomes, Leaf or stem cuttings (less reliable)
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningSnip spent inflorescences and yellow leaves; occasional pinching keeps a compact form.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring, refreshing the airy mix; prefers slightly snug, shallow containers.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Overly wet media invite fungus gnats and root rot; ensure drainage and airflow.
ToxicityLatex sap may irritate skin; not known as highly toxic, but avoid ingestion and keep away from pets and children.
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