There are 150 different species of columnea. They come fromCentral America, South America, and the West Indies; their natural habitat is the dambdamp tropical forest.
Because they are semi-upright or trailing plants, they look especially fine in hanging baskets. The brightly colored, tubular flowers are orange, scarlet, or yellow, and many hybrids bloom continuously throughout the year. Two of the better-known hybrids are “Early Bird” and “Mary Ann”.
Columneas aren’t the easiest plants to grow, but keeping the air moist will help them stay healthy and blooming. Water carefully during winter, and keep them away from their sources.
Light: Provide at least 4 hours of curtain-filtered sunlight from a bright south, east or west window.
Water: Keep moist during growth and and flowering, at other times, allow it to dry between waterings.
Humidity: Requires moist air. Use a humidifier for best results.
Temperatures: 55° to 60° F at night, 70° to 75° F during the day. Some species require much cooler night temperatures in winter to bloom well.
Fertilization: Fertilize only when plant is actively growing or flowering
Propagation: Take cuttings from stems or shoots that have recently matured.
Grooming: Prune after flowering
Repotting: Repot infrequently
Problems: Subject to crown rot in overly
Studio Mzlaki