Homalomena 'Emerald Gem' - Upright Shield Plant

Introduce a touch of lush, tropical elegance to your home with the Homalomena 'Emerald Gem' (Homalomena 'Emerald Gem'), also known as the Queen of Hearts or Shield Plant. This upright plant boasts truly captivating dark green, waxy, spade-shaped leaves that emerge gracefully, creating a dense and vibrant display. Native to the humid rainforests of tropical Asia and South America, the 'Emerald Gem' brings an exotic feel to any interior. Typically growing to a manageable height of 12 to 30 inches tall, it is an ideal choice for areas with height restrictions or for adding a rich green accent to desktops and shelves. While it's a relative of the generally easy-care philodendron, the 'Emerald Gem' is a bit more discerning and requires more attention to thrive. It's a rewarding plant for those who enjoy providing a little extra care to ensure its stunning foliage remains vibrant and healthy.

Important Note

Homalomena 'Emerald Gem' (like other Aroid plants) is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Please handle with care and keep out of reach of curious children and animals.

Key Features

• Distinctive Spade-Shaped Leaves: Features dark green, waxy, and beautifully spade-shaped leaves that form a lush, upright display.
• Ideal for Height-Restricted Areas: Reaching a typical height of 12-30 inches, it's perfectly suited for tabletops, shelves, or areas with limited vertical space.
• Lush & Upright Growth: Grows with an attractive, upright habit, creating a full and vibrant green presence.
• Tropical Aesthetic: Brings an exotic, rainforest feel to any indoor setting with its rich green foliage and natural sheen.
• Air-Purifying Qualities: Contributes to a healthier indoor environment by helping to purify the air.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. A spot near a window with filtered light is ideal.
• Water: This plant likes its soil kept consistently moist but never soggy. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. It is more sensitive to drying out than some other common houseplants.
• Humidity: Thrives in high humidity. Consider misting regularly, placing it on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier, especially in dry environments.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, rich potting mix high in organic matter. A mix designed for aroids or a general indoor potting mix with added perlite and orchid bark works well.
• Feeding: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer growing seasons with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter.
• Temperature: Prefers warm, consistent temperatures, ideally between 21-29°C (70-85°F). Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
• Pruning: Prune away any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.