Bazroomia 5g

Bazroomia is a compact evergreen foliage plant from the pepper family, grown not for flowers but for its thick, glossy green (sometimes variegated) leaves. A neat houseplant of about 20-38 cm, it brings a fresh, air-purifying touch to any indoor corner or shaded balcony. Its blooms are only insignificant greenish-white spikes, so the real ornamental value is the lush, mounded foliage that stays attractive all year.

Planting

Plant in a well-drained mix, such as two parts ericaceous compost with one part perlite and one part orchid bark, or a houseplant or cactus mix. Set it in bright but indirect, filtered light near an east- or west-facing window; direct summer sun scorches the leaves. It is propagated from cuttings, not seed: take softwood stem cuttings about 8-13 cm in spring or early summer, cut below a leaf node, remove lower leaves, and root in gritty compost or water before potting.

Fertilizing

Feed only during active growth in spring and summer. Apply a half-strength liquid fertiliser every two weeks from April to October, or use a slow-release granular feed once a year. Do not fertilise in winter.

Care

Keep warm at about 18-30 C and never below 10 C; in Egypt grow it indoors or on a shaded balcony year-round. Let the top few centimetres of mix dry between waterings and avoid overwatering, which rots roots. Raise humidity with a tray of damp gravel. Watch for mealybugs, spider mites and scale, and prevent root rot by erring on the dry side.