Free Episcia Dianthiflora Plants

With its attractive, fringed white flowers that contrast well with the dark green foliage, the Episcia produces an effective display. The flowering period is rather short, although as the plant trails well it retains its appeal throughout the year. The Episcia prefers high humidity and a fairly well-lit situation, shielded from direct sunlight. For this reason it is a useful subject for an opaque bathroom window; a kitchen is also suitable if the conditions are right. Although it is usually grown in a hanging basket, the Episcia can also look highly effective on a pedestal ifspace permits. Care should be taken with watering as the plant is susceptible to root rot from excessive moisture.

Plant type : Flowering plant with trailing habit
Season of interest : Summer
Size : 7.5cm (3in) tall, with 30-90cm (12—36in) trails
Flower : 2.5cm (1 in) fringed, white
Leaf : Oval to almost round, 2-3cm (|—1 Jin), mid green, soft and hairy
Temperature : 15-20°C (59-68°F)
Aspect/Light : Moderately to reasonably well-lit situation with some light shade
Humidity : High
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to dry a little before re-watering; keep on drier side in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every two to three weeks with flowering plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Divide roots and plant in houseplant potting compost at 21 -22°C (70-72°F) in mid spring to early summer
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Aphid, mealy bug, root rot if over¬watered
Availability : Occasionally available in late spring and early summer
Uses indoors : Hanging basket plant for kitchen or bathroom; also good on a pedestal
Other varieties : E. cupreata - larger, more highly coloured leaves; red flowers