Propagation
Divide established clumps (rhizome) during spring with leafy shoots.


Botanic information
Leaf: The oblong to elliptical fleshy leaves have a long sheathed petiole up to 150mm (6in) and appears from a central growing tip on the stem. The dark green upper surface may have feathered or blotched silver-pink to white markings and a prominentmid rib.

Flower: The tiny flowers are arranged on a cylindrical spike that is enclosed in a boat-shaped light green spathe. They appear throughout the year and are not the main feature of the plant.

Fruit: The ellipsoidal berry contains a single seed and is arranged in clusters. The small seeds are viable but the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively.

Physiological problems
Cold injurycauses the lower leaves to develop grey patches and becoming chlorotic eventually collapsing within 3-7 days. If the terminal growth is unaffected the plant will recover. The temperature should be maintained above 12.7şC(55şF).

Excessive lightand temperature causes the foliage to grow vertically and the colour becomes faded. Exposed plants should be placed in a semi-shaded position where the leaves may recover.

Copper deficienciesresult in a terminal leaves becoming chlorotic or deformed in an older leaves lose their colour appearing faded. Applications of copper sulphate or sulphur sprays to the foliage should be applied during warm periods to allow absorption by the plant.