Callisia comes from the Latin words for beautiful lily. Though Callisia looks like a lily or a bromeliad and grows like a spider plants, it is actually in the wandering jew family and is just as easy to grow and care for these plants.

Like spider plant, Callisia basket plant sends out plantlets that can easily be snipped off and planted to propagate new plants. Its foliage feels rubbery and it has small, white, very fragrant flowers.

Callisia plant care is minimal. Simply hang a basket of the plant in low to medium light. Water every 2-3 days. During spring, summer and fall, fertilize basket plants with a regular 10-10-10 fertilizer monthly. In the winter, stop fertilizing and water less frequently.

Growing Callisia Plants for Health

As with many houseplants, basket plant purifies indoor air pollutants. In addition, all parts of the plant are edible and used in herbal remedies. The mature leaves can be snipped right off the plant and chewed to relieve stomach and digestive issues. Callisia is a natural antibiotic, antibacterial, and antioxidant.

In Russia, Callisia leaves are infused in vodka and used as a tonic for skin problems, colds, heart problems, cancer, varicose veins, upset stomachs, and inflammation from arthritis. The leaves can also be infused in wine or dried for teas. Oil infused with Callisia is used as a muscle or joint rub, and also good for bruises and varicose veins.

Try growing a Callisia basket plant as a beautiful houseplant and don’t forget to stock up your medicine cabinet with its homemade oils and tonics.