Family: Gesneriaceae

From tropical America and the West Indies, these splendid, tropical, trailing shrubs are suitable for warm climates or glasshouses. Epiphytic in nature, they are best grown in hanging baskets so that the trails of showy, tubular flowers can be displayed to advantage. The small, neat leaves have a velvety texture. In their natural habitat they are pollinated by hummingbirds.

Species

C. gloriosa, column flower, grows to over 1 m (3 ft). The dense leaves are covered in purple or red hairs on top and purplish red hairs underneath. Two-lipped scarlet flowers with bright yellow throats appear in spring.

C. hirta, growing to 1 m (3 ft), has reddish, hairy stems, very hairy leaves and reddish orange flowers.

C. microphylla, to 1 m (3 ft), has reddish brown, hairy stems and small, round leaves clothed in green or reddish hairs. The yellow and scarlet flowers appear in spring and summer.

Cultivation

Grow in a warm greenhouse or conservatory, or in a warm room indoors. Plant in hanging baskets or pots in soilless potting compost. Provide good light (but shade from direct sun) and a humid atmosphere. Avoid overwatering. Propagate from stem tip cuttings in spring, in warm, humid conditions.

Climate

Zone 10 and above.