Gloxinias (Sinningia hybrids) come in a wide range of colors, with variations in both foliage and flower forms. They are tuberous plants which are usually grown as houseplants, but may also be grown in containers in a shaded part of the garden. Indoors the plant requires bright light but not direct sun, and should be grown in a humid area at 60-75 degrees.
They are usually purchased as a blooming plant, but tubers are often available from December to March. Plant the tuber (hollow side up) in a 4-5 inch pot, an inch deep in rich, light soil (a mix of loam, peat and sand works well) and water sparingly until the first leaves begin to grow, then gradually increase watering as the roots fill the pot. (use care to keep the water off the velvety foliage) When the roots have filled the pot, replant it in a larger (6-8") pot, and begin feeding it regularly with a diluted "bloom" type fertilizer.
The blooms will begin to appear in 3-4 months, and may last for as long as another 3-4 months. When the bloom cycle ceases and the foliage growth stops, gradually decrease watering until the foliage has died off. Store the tuber (still potted) in a cool dark place for 6-10 weeks, keeping the soil slightly moist. Repot the tuber (after this dormant period) in a larger pot with fresh soil.
[ February 27, 2010, 06:32 AM: Message edited by: Bill ]
bbbbbbbbb Posts: 11227 | From: Cedar Hill Washington | Registered: Aug 2002
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I have a hardy gloxinia in my back yard. If there is a name to it, I don't know it, because my children like to take them off and plant them else where and I never find them...... But it's hardy at least to my area which is at least 5.... It's gorgeous!! And I'm guilty alot of times of buying things on sale or a old timer gardener will give me so many plants and I'm not sure or never sure of where to put them, I'll just plant them in the back and I'll get to them and sometimes, never move them. But this one has thrived where I put it, in the back, a bit of sun and a bit of shade and it's moist sometimes, and I don't do a thing to it and it blooms it little heart out. I love it. Mine's a pink and it doesn't seem to be as frilly but like a tube. But it's a gorgeous color and I look forward to it, it's one of the spring/early summer flowers!! Weezie
bbbbbbbbb Weezie
Don't forget to be kind to strangers. For some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it. - Bible - Hebrews 13:2
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