coral bead plant

Growing and Caring for Coral Bead Plants (Nertera granadensis)

Sharing is caring!


If you know anything about plants, you know they can range from extremely easy to almost impossible to care for. 

For those looking for a challenge but not one they cannot overcome, Nertera granadensis is a great plant to take a shot at. Here’s how to grow and care for the Coral Bead plant.

The Coral Bead plant is a low-lying herbaceous perennial plant native to tropical parts of Southeast Asia, South America, New Zealand, and eastern Australia. It is a well-known ground cover worldwide.

Its leaves are small, ovular, and dark green while its flowers bloom a white to yellowish-green color. What makes this little plant so beautiful, however, are not its small flowers but the berries that appear after the blooming period. 

These berries appear orange or red and can completely cover the entire plant, giving it the nickname “pin-cushion plant.” Because of their orange color, you can often find them for sale leading up to Halloween as they are commonly used for holiday decor. They are extremely affordable, as well. 

Even though they are outdoor plants, N. granadensis plants are becoming more popular as indoor houseplants. While indoors, they do require much more care when it comes to temperature control, watering, and sunning but can thrive if properly nurtured. 

Because they need extra care when kept indoors, this is a great plant to attempt to grow if you want to take the next steps from beginner to intermediate horticulturist. 

Plant Facts

Scientific nameNertera granadensis 
Common namesCoral Bead Plant; Pin-Cushion Plant; Coral Moss; English Baby Tears 
FamilyRubiaceae
Plant TypeHerbaceous Perennial Houseplant
Height and Width2-4 inches in height; 4-6 inches in width
OriginSoutheast Asia; New Zealand; Australia; South America 
Flower colorsWhite or Greenish-yellow 
Foliage colorDark Green 
Sun ExposurePrefers indirect bright sunlight 
Soil Type & pHPorous; mixed with perlite; neutral to slightly acidic pH preference (6.1-7.3)
Special featuresSlow growing 

How to Grow Coral Bead Plants 

If you are growing N. granadensis outdoors, there is little you must actively do to see that your houseplant thrives. It is up to the elements!

Things become a little trickier when attempting to grow your Coral Bead plant inside. This is because it is completely up to you whether this species is able to survive throughout the year and re-bloom come spring. 

Propagation

If you choose to propagate N. granadensis, the best way to do so is through clump division. While it is possible to use stem or tip cuttings, it is a much more difficult and time-consuming process. It is best to propagate during the spring months. 

The first step you want to take when propagating this kind of houseplant is gently removing the soil surrounding its upper root system. Once the soil has been cleared, gently pull away pieces from the original plant being sure those new pieces have a solid root system that can be replanted. 

Next, take the clumps you have gathered and plant them in a new, freshly soiled pot. Upon planting your clumps, you will be able to care for them in the same way as you did the original plant. Coral Bead plant propagation is extremely easy and is a great way to gift plants to your family and friends. 

Soil

Because Nertera granadensis prefers soil to be extra moist during the spring and summer months, you want to use soil that is porous and will allow for adequate airflow and drainage. Introducing perlite or peat moss to your potting soil is a great way to ensure you are achieving this. 

It is always a good idea to use potting soil that includes minerals that will help with your plant’s growth and that are tailored specifically to the plant’s needs. For the Coral Bead plant, that is especially true.

Consider doing a soil test prior to planting to find out exactly what the specimen needs. Additionally, adding tree bark to the soil mixture can help improve the drainage and aeration of the soil, which is beneficial for the plant’s growth.

Pruning

Pruning is not essential for the health of N. granadensis but is a great way to keep the foliage plant looking as vibrant as possible. Similarly, pruning can be used as a way to keep its size in scale with its pot. 

If you notice any wilted leaves, you can absolutely trim them off to keep a healthy appearance. This will also divert any water from being sent to dead leaves. The same goes for any shriveled or black fruits that appear on the Coral Bead. 

Black fruits may signal that there is an infection so it is important to inspect the plant fully if any are spotted. You want to make sure you find the problem before it worsens and ruins your entire plant. 

Repotting and Transplanting

When trying to determine what size of the pot to use when repotting and transplanting, taking a look at the root system of the plant can be helpful. Because Coral Bead plants have a root system that does not protrude deep into the ground, a pot that is only a few inches deep does the best job. 

You do not want a pot that is too deep, as moisture can more easily build up in the excess soil, potentially causing issues for the houseplant. 

N. granadensis does not need to be repotted and will do well staying in the same pot for the duration of its life. However, if you wish for the plant to grow larger and need more space, it is recommended that you use separate pots during the spring months.

Coral Bead Plant Care Guide

Now that your Coral Bead plants are planted, here are some tips for taking care of them.

Water

For beginners, the watering needs of a Coral Bead plant may seem complicated as these plants require different amounts of water depending on the season. However, once a routine is set, it can easily become a part of your daily, weekly, and seasonal routine. 

N. granadensis prefers an extra moist and humid environment during the spring and early summer months and needs such in order to properly bloom. Once spring begins, you will want to keep your foliage plant’s soil evenly moist at all times without making the soil soggy. It may take you a few tries to perfect the amount of water necessary to do so but having a pot with proper drainage can help remove excess moisture. 

A great tip used by many is to place your pot on a tray or dish of wet pebbles from which the Coral Bead plant can suck up water if needed. It is also recommended that you mist your leaves daily during these months to promote blooming. 

Once fall arrives, you can start waiting until the soil has completely dried to water N. granadensis. Do this until the following spring, only misting leaves around once a week. 

Sunlight

In order to grow and thrive properly, Coral Bead plants prefer bright and indirect sunlight. Direct sun can burn the leaves of your plant or cause its berries to dry out, leaving it looking sickly. It is best to place N. granadensis near a south or east-facing window to avoid direct sunlight. 

Similar to the watering needs of N. granadensis, its sunlight requirement also changes depending on the season. During the spring and summer, you almost never want the houseplant to receive direct sunlight as the hot rays can severely damage your plant. Remember, these plants need to stay humid and moist for the duration of these months. In the fall and winter, a small amount of direct bright light will be fine. 

Temperature and Humidity

Humidity and temperature are both very important when growing and caring for a Coral. Bead plant, particularly during the period in which it is meant to bloom. 

N. granadensis prefers mildly cool temperatures and high humidity. The range of temperature that is best for the plant is 55 degrees to 68 degrees F but they can withstand slightly hotter or colder temperatures. 

During the winter months, you never want your plant to be in temperatures below 45 degrees F and it is best kept inside for the entire duration of both fall and winter. However, once spring arrives, the blooming process can be promoted if you move the Coral Bead outside. This is because temperatures above 65 degrees F, often the temperature within homes at this time, will not allow them to bloom. 

To boost humidity in the fall and winter, misting fashion is a great method. You can mist your Coral Bead everyday in the spring and summer and once a week in the spring and summer to keep the plant moist.

Fertilizer

While fertilizer isn’t a requirement for your plant’s survival, it is a great idea to regularly fertilize N. granadensis, particularly during the spring and summer months. This will ensure your plant will bloom completely and you can enjoy its beauty in full. 

It is recommended that you feed your plant on a monthly basis using a water soluble fertilizer formulation. So as not to over-fertilize your Coral Bead, only use the fertilizer in half strength. Misting your plant with a liquid fertilizer is a quick and easy way to achieve this. 

Pest and Diseases

N. granadensis plants are relatively hardy. Nevertheless, there are a few issues you should be on the lookout for.

Root Rot 

In order to properly bloom, N. granadensis plants need lots of moisture and humidity in the spring. If not attended to properly, this is a perfect scenario for root rot to occur. This is also exacerbated by the plant’s shallow root system. 

A great way to avoid this is by making sure you are distributing the water evenly throughout the soil. Do not overwater near the stems. You must distribute the water equally. Similarly, try not to over-mist your leaves. 

Furthermore, a pot that has proper drainage is essential for fighting off root rot. 

Aphids and Spider Mites 

It is very common for spider mites or aphids to infest a N. granadensis because they like humid and moist environments. Because it is a common occurrence, it is important that you regularly and thoroughly check your plant for both these pests as the dense and colorful leaves, flowers, and berries can easily hide them from view. 

While pests are a burden, they can be easily eliminated with insecticides or pesticides. You can even use rubbing alcohol to get rid of these creatures. 

Common Varieties and Cultivars

While the Coral Bead plant does not have any cultivars, there are approximately 15 species within the genus Nertera, each produce berries that are usually orange or red in color. They are all known for their short heights and shallow root systems.

Listed below are some other common species, all native to New Zealand, within the genus Nertera apart from granadensis

  • N. balfouriana 
  • N. ciliata 
  • N. cunninghamii 

FAQs

Is Nertera granadensis poisonous?

No, Nertera granadensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, it’s always wise to exercise caution and consult reliable plant toxicity databases if there are concerns, especially if you have pets or small children.

Is Nertera granadensis indoor or outdoor plant?

Both; it can be grown indoors or outdoors. It is often cultivated as a houseplant, where it can be kept in containers or hanging baskets, but it can also thrive in outdoor garden settings. It prefers partial shade and well-draining soil.

Conclusion

For those plant lovers looking for a challenge, N. granadensis is a great houseplant to try growing and caring for. Because it requires various amounts of water throughout the year and must be kept in bright but indirect sunlight, this plant can keep you both entertained and challenged year-round. 

Be sure to provide your plant with enough moisture and humidity during the spring and summer months so that it can properly bloom. You will also need to make sure it is getting plenty of bright sunlight without being harmed by it which can be done by indirectly sunning your plant. 

Always keep your plant at a regular temperature (between 55 and 68 degrees F), never allowing it to reach temperatures below 45 degrees F in the winter or above 65 degrees F during its blooming period. You may even want to put it outside while it is in its blooming stage! 

And don’t forget! N. granadensis can be easily propagated and given as a gorgeous and thoughtful gift to your loved ones. 

*image by pikaneo/depositphotos

Scroll to Top