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The Vietnam form is particularly admired for its bold, velvety leaves, which are typically deep green to almost black, with striking contrasting venation. Depending on the individual specimen, the veins may appear in pale green, cream, or sometimes reddish tones, creating a dramatic pattern against the dark background. The leaves are thick, ovate to elliptic in shape, with a glossy yet slightly textured surface.
Compact and slow-growing, Labisia sp. Vietnam is a jewel plant well suited to terrariums, vivariums, or carefully maintained indoor conditions. Its combination of rare origin, velvety foliage, and striking venation makes it highly desirable among collectors of unusual tropical plants.
Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch its velvety foliage, while low light may dull the venation and slow its already modest growth.
Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 23 cm of substrate feels just slightly dry. Use soft, filtered, or rainwater if possible, as this plant can be sensitive to hard tap water.
Temperature: Thrives in 2028C. Avoid exposure below 16C.
Humidity: Requires very high humidity (7090%). Best grown in a terrarium, greenhouse, or under humidity domes. Low humidity will quickly cause leaf crisping.
Grow in a light, free-draining but moisture-retentive substrate a mix of fine orchid bark, peat-free compost, sphagnum moss, and perlite works well. Ensure excellent aeration around the roots.
Feed lightly every 46 weeks in spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser. Do not overfeed, as roots are delicate.
Remove any old or damaged leaves at the base. Being a slow grower, it requires minimal pruning, though patience is key to appreciating its gradual growth.
Compact, rarely exceeding 1520 cm in height. Growth is slow but steady under optimal conditions, with new leaves unfurling gradually.
Crispy leaf edges: Almost always due to insufficient humidity.
Yellowing leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or water quality issues.
Pests: Rare, but may attract thrips or spider mites if grown outside a terrarium.
Jewel plants like Labisia sp. Vietnam are prized primarily for their foliage rather than flowers. Their rarity and the difficulty of cultivating them outside controlled environments make them true collectors specimens. This particular form, with its velvety, veined leaves, is an outstanding addition to terrarium collections, where it thrives in stable, humid conditions.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect; avoid direct sun
Water: Keep lightly moist; sensitive to water quality
Temperature: 2028C; avoid below 16C
Humidity: Very high (7090%); best in terrariums
Soil: Moisture-retentive but airy mix
Feed: Light feeding every 46 weeks in growth season
Growth: Compact, 1520 cm; velvety green leaves with striking venation
