Flame violet (Episcia) originates from Central and South America. It is closely related to a number of house plants such as African violet and Gloxinia. It’s known locally as Smoky ivy.
Flame Violets are excellent flowering plants, prized for their foliage as well as for their florescence. The leaves are oval and vary from green with silver markings to purple, and they are also a little hairy. There are several varieties, the most popular being Episcia reptans and Episcia cupreata.
The flowers are tubular in shape, dainty and brightly coloured, with red being the most common shade. In addition to the red variety, they also are available in shades of pink, yellow and white.
Flame Violet is a natural trailing plant which sends out so many runners that it is ideal for a hanging basket or simply for ground cover.
This is an easy-to-grow plant, so anyone can try it. Propagate it from its runners which produce little plantlets. Mix some clean white sand and some potting soil together. Remember to add some pebbles to a four-inch pot before you add the soil mixture. Set the runners with the plantlet firmly in the soil. Mist lightly, and within seven to ten days they will root. Then you have a new plant.
A Flame violet needs bright light, but not direct sunlight. After watering it, allow the soil to dry out slightly before the next watering.
Fertilize with All Purpose Miracle Gro every 14 days.
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
