Homalocladium Ribbons and Curls

Plant name: Homalocladium ‘Ribbons and Curls’

Scientific name: Homalocladium platycladum

Plant description:
Homalocladium ‘Ribbons and Curls,’ commonly known as Ribbon Bush or Tapeworm Plant, is an unusual ornamental shrub grown for its flattened, twisting stems rather than traditional foliage. This architectural plant produces long, strap-like green stems that undulate and curl, creating a sculptural form that stands out in containers and tropical-style plantings. Its open, airy structure adds movement and texture to modern and eclectic garden designs.

Flower description:
Small, pale white to pinkish flowers may appear along the edges of the flattened stems. Blooms are subtle and not considered a primary ornamental feature. The plant is cultivated mainly for its distinctive stem structure.

Leaf description:
True leaves are small and short-lived, appearing briefly at stem nodes before dropping. The flattened, ribbon-like stems perform photosynthesis and function as the primary visual element. These glossy green stems twist and branch irregularly, giving the plant its signature curled appearance.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 9–11 outdoors; commonly grown as a container plant in cooler regions.

Mature height and width:
Typically 4–6 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide, depending on growing conditions and pruning. Container-grown plants may remain more compact.

Landscape uses:
Ideal for statement containers, tropical-themed gardens, patio displays, and interior plant collections. Its unusual growth habit makes it a focal point in modern plant arrangements and sculptural garden designs.

Native range:
Native to the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in full sun to bright, indirect light. Adequate light supports sturdy stem growth and vibrant green color. In very intense sun, light afternoon protection may prevent stress.

Water requirements:
Prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between watering. Avoid prolonged drought or waterlogged conditions, which can cause stress and root issues.

Pests and problems:
May attract scale insects or aphids. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Providing good drainage and airflow reduces the likelihood of common problems.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Handles warm temperatures well when soil moisture is maintained. Sensitive to frost and prolonged freezing temperatures, which can damage stems and reduce vigor.

Growing tips:
Plant in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Prune selectively to control size and encourage branching, which enhances the layered ribbon effect. Provide support if stems become long and arching. Light feeding during the growing season supports steady growth without excessive softness. Position where the twisting stems can be viewed up close to fully appreciate their sculptural form.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.