Is tapeworm plant your next houseplant? Yes! From their vibrant green leaves and small white flowers, to the eye-catching branching patterns of thin stems resembling tiny worms – tapeworm plants bring a special charm into any space. With only basic care requirements for success in your home, these interesting houseplants will add plenty of character with minimal effort. The unique shrub known as the centipede plant, tapeworm plant, or ribbonbush is a sight to behold. It features small flat leaves and stems with an arching shape. Muehlenbeckia platyclada adds an air of mystery wherever it takes root.

For a truly inviting home, tapeworm plants are the perfect way to add lushness and elegance. From the graceful foliage that adds texture and contrast in any space to use them as living walls or curtains for privacy – these flowering vines offer much more than just beauty alone! Not only do they help soften sharp edges of furniture but also make rooms appear bigger with ease; additionally, they provide an extra benefit since research has shown that tapeworms can purify the air, making them ideal if you suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions.

What is a Tapeworm Plant?

Step aside, begonias! The tapeworm plant is a quirky and fascinating species of tropical flowering plant native to Central and South America. This vibrant greenery stands out with its long, thin stem that undulates like – you guessed it – an actual wiggly worm! Each branch features finger or toe-like sections while small white flowers adorn the end of each segment; the entire length can stretch up to two feet in height. Truly distinct yet strikingly beautiful, this particular piece of foliage makes an unforgettable statement wherever planted.

Previously known as Homalocladium platycladum, Tapeworm plant is a member of the Polygonaceae family. The Polygonaceae are a family of flowering plants known informally as the knotweed family or buckwheat family. While others may look different in growth habit, they all have the same small, tight cluster type flowers.

How Do You Take Care of the Tapeworm Plant?

Tapeworm plants grow best as a houseplant near a window to get plenty of indirect sunlight every day, and keep the humidity high by regularly misting it regularly or pairing it with other plants. Additionally, be sure there are drainage holes present on their containers for aeration and moisture control—tapeworm plants thrive best when soil is moist without standing water. Finally, fertilize from time to time using liquid fertilizer, as this helps promote optimal growth and healthiness of these delicate flora companions.

I’ve found that my tapeworm plant grows like crazy when I put it outside for the summer. I usually tuck it in among a group of pots and it flourishes in the summer heat and humidity.

Pruning Tapeworm Plant

Pruning your tapeworm plant not only keeps it tidy and neat, but can be used to shape its growth! Snipping off the tips of stems will encourage horizontal branching, allowing you to keep a more compact look. This lateral spread also allows for increased light exposure and photosynthesis throughout all levels. (And don’t forget to read the following section on tapeworm plant propagation so you can grow more with all of those trimmings!)

Tapeworm Plant Propagation

You can unleash your inner botanist and propagate a tapeworm plant. Snip off four inches of an existing stem, place it in well-drained soil or compost mix, then keep the area lightly moist as you wait for new stems to start appearing. Once established—roughly 2-3 months later­—provide indirect sunlight and fertilize during spring/summer only; plants tend to slow down significantly over the fall/winter, so avoid boosting them at this time. With proper care, before long, you’ll be able to enjoy your very own baby tapeworm plant.

Why Do Tapeworm Plants Have Flat Stems?

Tapeworm plants have found innovative ways to survive in their environment. By having flattened stems that can absorb and store water from the soil, they can make it through arid times when other plants would wilt. Additionally, this same flatness makes them more difficult for predators to spot and provides an evolutionary edge over competing species with rounder stems.

How Much Sunlight Does a Tapeworm Plant Need To Grow? 

Tapeworm plants enjoy plenty of bright light but aren’t a fan of direct sunlight – it’s best to find the perfect balance between sunshine and shade, so they can thrive indoors. Too little indirect light will result in lackluster colors, while too much may burn their leaves. With 4-6 hours each day, these lively houseplants can stay healthy and vibrant.

How To Grow Tapeworm Plants As A Houseplant 

Tapeworm plants, a specialist known for their unique ability to store moisture in flattened stems, provide minimal maintenance fuss with the right care. To start growing this remarkable plant species, all you need is a quality potting soil and some patience. This plant can be very slow growing, especially during the winter months, but is sure to be a unique conversation piece in your plant collection.

Patience is the key to success when caring for a tapeworm, but it will be worth the wait! With proper care and time, you’ll reap beautiful foliage rewards.

Spruce up your home with a tapeworm houseplant – their eye-catching shapes and bright colors will add vibrancy to any room. And as an added bonus, they help purify the air in your home by releasing oxygen! Just remember to give it a good watering every few days so that these living decorations can thrive for many years of beauty.

Tapeworm houseplants make an excellent addition to any indoor space – they provide character and beauty while requiring hardly any effort! With the right humidity levels, indirect light exposure, proper aeration through drainage holes in pots/containers used for planting & moderate temperatures during winter months – your tapeworm houseplant will be blooming with happiness. Go ahead and give it a try today – happy gardening!