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Boea imagePhoto: Author NzfaunaCC BY-SA 3.0

Queensland Rock Violet

Boea hygroscopica

Also known as: Boea
Native to Northern Queensland, Australia (Cape York Peninsula to Rockhampton)

Boea hygroscopica is a small herbaceous plant growing to about 15 centimetres (6 inches) tall, forming dense velvety clumps. It features soft, fuzzy foliage and produces flowers over many weeks during warm seasons. Notable for being a resurrection plant, it can survive extreme desiccation by entering dormancy and reviving when moisture returns. The plant thrives in tropical environments, often found growing on moss-covered rocks and along creek beds in rainforest habitats.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultymoderate
LightBright, filtered light with optional early-morning direct sun
WaterRegular watering to maintain consistent moisture with good drainage
Humiditymedium

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Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Boea

Light & Location

Light Requirements

Bright, filtered light with optional early-morning direct sun

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

Regular watering to maintain consistent moisture with good drainage

Humidity Needs

medium humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

Native Climate

Native to Northern Queensland, Australia (Cape York Peninsula to Rockhampton)

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Well-drained mix with 20% sand content and scoria/drainage layer

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Boea plants

Propagation methods for this plant are not available yet.

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Northern Queensland, Australia (Cape York Peninsula to Rockhampton)

Mature Size

15 cm (6 inches) tall

Lifecycle

Perennial

Pet Safety
Unknown
🌸 Flowering

Indoor Blooming

This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.

Bloom Season

Warm months (summer)

Fun Fact

Can survive complete desiccation for months and revive within 24 hours of rehydration

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Boea

Chewing insects
Symptoms

Visible leaf damage from grasshoppers or caterpillars

Community Tips

Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts

No tips shared yet. Be the first to share your experience!

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Nurseries Near You

Find Where to Buy Boea

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