Chlorophytum Fire Flash Plant

Botanical Name: Chlorophytum orchidastrum

Fire Flash plant is a newcomer to the houseplant scene and is already getting plenty of admiration from growers. 

Lush and green, the fountain of broad leaves give this tropical plant appeal -- however, it's the contrasting orange stems that make Fire Flash captivating to all who see it.

Unexpected orange stems make Fire Flash simply stunning. Photo © Oksana Lyskova

When you display this handsome plant in your home, don't be surprised when people stop in their tracks to ask about it. Set a young plant on a table or plant stand to show it off.

Best of all, Fire Flash plant care is easy. Its thick roots store water, so it is forgiving if you forget to water once in a while. This low-maintenance houseplant doesn't even mind low light levels, although it grows best with some indirect sunlight. 

Fire Flash Plant Problems, Solutions and Answers

Brown leaf tips are caused by dry air. Unfortunately, this is common. Give this tropical native the humidity it craves with a cool-mist humidifier when indoor air becomes dry. 

Watch for bugs. Fire Flash plant seems to shrug off pests, however it's a good idea to check it occasionally. Scale insects, aphids, mealybugs and spider mites may invade indoor plants. Isolate any infested houseplant and treat it right away.

Will it bloom? Surprisingly, yes. Tiny, white flowers will grow on mature plants in the winter months. Don't cut them off -- this is where new leaf clusters will form.

Is Chlorophytum orchidastrum poisonous? No. While you don't want your cat or dog nibbling on your houseplant, you can rest assured this one is safe around pets.

Chlorophytum Fire Flash Plant Care

Origin: Tropical East Africa

Height: 1-2 ft (30-60 cm) 

Light: Put Fire Flash plant where it'll get plenty of light, but protect it from hot midday sun, which may cause brown scorch marks on leaves. Filtered light from a south- or west-facing window will give it the light it needs.

Water: Water thoroughly, then allow top half of soil to dry out before watering again. Fire Flash has thick, strong roots that store water, making it drought-tolerant. It's a good idea to use a pot with a drainage hole and empty drainage tray. Water less in winter, but don't allow Fire Flash plant to dry out. Also, remember to always use room-temperature water when watering houseplants because cold water is a shock to them.

Humidity: This rainforest native loves humidity. Aim to maintain 50% relative humidity or higher around Fire Flash plant. If the air is dry, especially in winter, use a cool-mist room humidifier or if your plant is still small, set it on a pebble tray with water.

Temperature: Average to warm 65-80°F/18-27°C year-round. Chlorophytum orchidastrum will tolerate temps as low as 60°F/16°C.

Soil: Good-quality, all-purpose potting mix.

Fertilizer: Feed 4 times a year with a balanced (such as 10-10-10 NPK) water-soluble fertilizer.

Propagation: Division. As Fire Flash plant grows offsets, you can separate them. It's best to pull the whole plant from the pot first; then use a sharp knife to cut plant roots apart.

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