Iresine herbstii baby plant sent with cling film around the soil.

This tropical native needs warmth, humidity and plenty of light to thrive. Put it near a window or in a sunroom to maintain its vibrant color. If you set it on your porch or patio for the summer, keep it shaded from hot, direct sunlight.

Repot in spring. When you see roots growing out of the drainage holes, it is time to repot. Move it up to a container just 1-2 inches larger, using a pot with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil. If you want to use a container without drainage holes, use it as a cachepot. Just slip a plain nursery pot into the cachepot. I put pebbles in the bottom of cachepots to keep the inner pot above the drainage water. As the water evaporates, it adds humidity around the plant -- and this tropical native will love it.