Marcgravia sintenisii

Marcgravia sintenisii, commonly known as the Rainbow Shingling Vine, is a visually striking tropical plant native to Puerto Rico. Renowned for its vibrant foliage that transitions from red to orange to green as it matures, this epiphytic vine thrives in humid, warm environments, making it an excellent choice for terrariums and vivariums.

Feature:

• Growth Habit: Epiphytic vine with a shingling growth pattern, adhering closely to surfaces like tree trunks or moss poles

• Leaf Coloration: New leaves emerge red, transitioning to orange and finally dark green as they mature

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves

• Watering: Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry

• Humidity: Thrives in high humidity levels, ideally between 70–90%

• Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 80°F). Avoid temperatures below 15°C (59°F)

• Soil: Use a well-draining substrate, such as a mix of sphagnum moss and orchid bark, to mimic its natural growing conditions

• Support: Provide a vertical support like a moss pole or driftwood to encourage its natural climbing behavior