{"product_id":"nertera-granadensis-astrid-coral-bead-plant","title":"Nertera granadensis ‘Astrid’ – Coral Bead Plant","description":"\u003cp\u003eNertera granadensis ‘Astrid’ forms a low, cushion-like mat of tiny green leaves that become covered in bright, bead-like orange berries through summer and early autumn. Compact, eye-catching and a real conversation starter, it’s ideal for terrariums, shelves, and small decorative pots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScientific Name\u003cbr\u003eNertera granadensis ‘Astrid’ (from Latin granadensis, meaning “from Granada\/Granada region”)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOriginally described under the genus Nertera by botanist Hipólito Ruiz López (late 18th century). The species has remained consistently within Nertera, with cultivars like ‘Astrid’ bred for heavier berry production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSynonyms\u003cbr\u003eNertera depressa, Nertera balfouriana (older or misapplied names sometimes seen in horticulture)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon Name(s)\u003cbr\u003eBead Plant, Coral Bead Plant, Coral Moss, Pin-Cushion Plant\u003cbr\u003e(Note: sometimes marketed as “Coffee Bean Plant”, which is misleading and not botanically accurate.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003eNative to Central and South America, particularly Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Chile, often found in cool, shaded, damp forest floors and highland regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLight\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves and berries. Too little light will reduce berry production and cause a looser, less compact growth habit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the soil lightly and consistently moist — never soggy.\u003cbr\u003eAllow only the very top surface to dry before watering again.\u003cbr\u003eReduce slightly in winter, but do not allow the plant to dry out completely, as it can collapse quickly when underwatered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHumidity\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHigh humidity is essential. Aim for 60–80%.\u003cbr\u003eMist around (not directly on the berries), use a pebble tray, or place in a naturally humid room such as a bathroom. Excellent for closed or semi-closed terrariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA light, airy, moisture-retentive mix is ideal. Choose a peat-free multipurpose compost with added perlite for drainage. Plant likes shallow pots to maintain even moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed sparingly during spring and summer — every 4–6 weeks — with a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser. Avoid feeding in winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTemperature\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrefers cool–moderate temperatures of 12–18°C.\u003cbr\u003eAvoid heatwaves or placing near radiators; berries drop prematurely if temperatures rise above 24°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePet-safe\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMildly toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSprouts Top Tip\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter berry season, trim lightly to keep the plant compact — this encourages fresh, dense growth and helps next year’s berry set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExtras\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBerries often appear in mid-to-late summer and last into autumn. They are delicate and can fall if the plant is moved or allowed to dry out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDid You Know?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn its native habitats, Nertera granadensis forms natural carpets across shaded forest floors, with berries acting as an important food source for small birds and insects.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sprouts of Bristol","offers":[{"title":"12cm","offer_id":57414509625725,"sku":"6357301843671","price":8.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0490\/2774\/3905\/files\/nertera-granadensis-astrid-coral-bead-plant-sprouts-of-bristol-sprouts-of-bristol-2501339.jpg?v=1763523890","url":"https:\/\/sproutsofbristol.pro\/products\/nertera-granadensis-astrid-coral-bead-plant","provider":"Sprouts of Bristol","version":"1.0","type":"link"}