Blood Leaf

SpringSummerFallWinter

10a–11bHardiness zone

Background

Iresine herbstii 'Blazin Rose' is a tender tropical perennial in the Amaranthaceae family, grown for its vivid rose-pink and chartreuse variegated foliage. Native to South America, it delivers consistent, heat-tolerant color in borders, containers, and tropical-style plantings where many other plants fade in midsummer.

In zones 10–11 it persists as a perennial; in cooler climates it is treated as a warm-season annual or carried over winter indoors from cuttings. Full sun intensifies leaf color; shade produces larger but less saturated foliage. Regular pinching keeps plants dense and compact. It tolerates high heat and humidity but collapses at the first frost. Fertile, consistently moist but well-drained soil gives best results; mulching conserves moisture during peak heat.

Within the broader Iresine genus, several species are documented as additives to ayahuasca preparations in Amazonian traditional practice. Ethnobotanical records also note use of Iresine herbstii in Brazilian folk medicine as a febrifuge and headache remedy.

Good companions

Impatiens Annual Geranium Zinnia Sweet Potato

Care guide

SunFull sun to part shade

WaterRegular

SoilMoist, well-drained, fertile

Spacing12–18 in

Height12–24 in

Zone10a – 11b

Seasonal tasks

spring

cutPinch stem tips back by one-third shortly after transplanting to encourage branching and prevent legginess.

sowStart 4–6 in stem cuttings from overwintered stock indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost, rooting them in moist potting mix under bright light.

sowTransplant rooted cuttings or nursery starts outdoors after all frost danger has passed and nighttime temperatures consistently exceed 50°F.

summer

cutContinue pinching every 4–6 weeks to maintain dense foliage and remove any tall flowering stems that draw energy away from leaf color.

watchCheck for root rot if soil stays saturated more than two days or if lower leaves yellow and drop without drought stress; improve drainage or reduce watering frequency.

watchInspect new growth for aphid colonies, especially during warm humid spells; dislodge with a strong water stream or treat with insecticidal soap.

fall

cutBefore first frost, take 4–6 in stem cuttings and root them in moist potting mix indoors to carry plants through winter.

Common problems

Root rot

Symptoms

Plants wilt, yellow, and stunt even in moist soil; lower stems and roots turn brown, soft, and mushy and the plant may collapse. Most common in heavy, wet, or poorly drained ground.

Treatment

Improve drainage and stop overwatering, and never plant too deep. Lift and destroy badly affected plants along with the soil around the roots. Grow in raised or free-draining beds to prevent it returning.

Fungal leaf spot

Symptoms

Brown or purplish spots on the leaves, often ringed with a yellow halo, that spread and merge in warm, humid, or wet weather; heavily spotted leaves yellow and drop early.

Treatment

Pick off spotted leaves and clear fallen debris to remove overwintering spores. Improve air circulation by thinning, and water at the base so foliage dries quickly. If it persists, apply a copper- or sulfur-based fungicide at the first sign.

Powdery mildew

Symptoms

White or grey powdery coating on leaves — usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.

Treatment

Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.