The store where I purchased it didn't know what it is. They described it as a Twisted Tropical. It was not flowering when I purchased it, but the flower stems were still there. Most of them have now fallen off. It grows well, has put on several new leaves. Although it looks a bit like a ficus, the leaves are longer and I don't believe ficus blooms. I'd just like to know what it is so I know better how to take care of it. Thanks for your help in advance!
I've been looking up lots of pictures of the Pachira aquatica, and although that plant is very similar in looks to mine, there are a few significant differences. The Pachira aquatica has 5 leaves per branch but my plant only has one. The five-leaf variety has leaves that grow down and then open up similar to an umbrella. My leaves grow straight up. Also, the Pachira aquatica looks to have longer leaves than my plant does; and the Pachira aquatica leaves also appear to be more veined. My plant is currently about 18-20 inches tall from the ground. I've included another picture of the plant, but more of a close-up to the leaves.
Saltcedar, I think you have hit it! The only difference I can tell between my plant and the description of Ardisia elliptica is that in their description the new leaves are often pinkish; mine are always green. However, the .pdf I found says only that it is often reddish, not always. So I believe Ardisia elliptica it is! The really funny thing is that it's classified as a weed, and has been targeted for eradication in 2 counties in Florida and Everglades National Park as it thrives in wetlands. I need to keep searching for information on how to take care of it as a houseplant. No risk of it getting away from me outside; I live in Texas, no wetlands around here! Thanks for your help!
