2023 What Colors Do Nephthytis Plants Come In: Expert Tell You

The Natural Beauty of Nephthytis Plants

Nephthytis plants, or nephthytis, exhibit a natural range of beautiful colors with simple care. Their heart-shaped leaves emerge as a soft green before quickly maturing with shades of red, pink, burgundy, white, and variegated. Some varieties even feature a striking combination of green and bronze. Originally from tropical West Africa, these plants have adapted well to cultivation and brighten up gardens with their lush foliage.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.

nephthytis, vibrant colors, white yellow and orange abstract painting — *Photo by* *Steve Johnson* / *Unsplash*

Popular Color Varieties of Nephthytis

Nephthytis plants exhibit a range of stunning colors and color combinations. The following are some of the most popular varieties:

White Nephthytis: Pure white nephthytis varieties feature leaves with white undersides and green upper surfaces. The contrast creates an eye-catching effect.

Green Nephthytis: Standard green nephthytis plants have solid green leaves and a more subdued appearance compared to other varieties.

Variegated Nephthytis: Variegated nephthytis plants have leaves marked by irregular patterns of green, cream, and white. The splashes of color vary between individual plants, creating unique patterns.

Burgundy Nephthytis: Burgundy nephthytis feature dark red or maroon leaves. The color deepens as the plant matures.

Bronze Nephthytis: Bronze varieties have a reddish-bronze cast to their green leaves. As the leaves age, they develop solid shades of copper and bronze.

Pink Nephthytis: Pink nephthytis plants feature shades of soft pink to bright pink on their leaves. The pink coloration ranges from speckled to solid in coverage.

nephthytis, vibrant colors, person standing on confetti — *Photo by* *JOSHUA COLEMAN* / *Unsplash*

Unveiling the Secrets of Nephthytis Color Genetics

The range of beautiful colors exhibited by nephthytis plants is due to the complex genetic interactions between plant pigments. These pigments include chlorophylls that determine the base green color, along with accessory pigments like anthocyanins that produce the reds and pinks.

Chlorophyll is by far the most abundant pigment in nephthytis leaves. Depending on the amount and type of chlorophyll, leaves appear in shades from light green to dark green. However, chlorophyll alone cannot produce the vibrant non-green colors seen in some nephthytis varieties.

Anthocyanin pigments provide the red, pink, purple and blue hues. They accumulate in cell vacuoles and their concentration determines the intensity of color. For example, burgundy nephthytis leaves contain high amounts of anthocyanins that mask the green from chlorophyll.

The unique color patterns in variegated nephthytis are due to genetic mutations that partially inactivate chlorophyll production in some leaf cells. This allows other pigments like carotenes to impart the cream and yellow colors.

All of these pigments interact based on nephthytis plants’ genetic profiles to produce the incredible spectrum of colors. Skillful plant breeders have developed many hybrids by combining desirable color traits.

nephthytis, vibrant colors, brown tree branch covered with snow — *Photo by* *Raimond Klavins* / *Unsplash*

Tips for Maintaining Vibrant Colors in Nephthytis Plants

There are a few essential care tips to help keep the brilliant colors of nephthytis plants:

Provide adequate bright light. Nephthytis need medium to bright indirect light to maintain their colors. Place them in an eastern or western window.

Monitor soil moisture. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause leaves to drop color and turn yellow.

Apply appropriate fertilizer. Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Too much nitrogen can reduce leaf color.

Control pests and diseases. Check leaves regularly for signs of pests like spider mites and aphids – these can cause leaves to yellow and drop color.

Avoid temperature extremes. Nephthytis grow best between 65 to 80 °F. At temperatures below 50°F, leaves may lose color.

Remove faded leaves. Prune off leaves that have lost their color to direct the plant’s energy into producing new vibrant foliage.

Repot regularly. Re-pot plants every 2-3 years in early spring using fresh potting mix. Plants in tight pots cannot replace faded leaves as quickly.

Following these care tips will help ensure your nephthytis plants remain colorful and thriving for many years. Proper light, moisture and fertilization are key to preserving the spectacular range of colors nephthytis plants have to offer!