Free Episcia Reptans Plants

This Episcia is not only a useful flowering plant, producing extremely pretty red flowers, but also a very attractive foliage plant, creating an effective display 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. A low-growing plant, it can be displayed to good effect in a bowl or pan, and is also suitable for associated planting. Care should be taken with watering as the plant is susceptible to root rot from excessive moisture. This is particularly important in the winter months when the plant is resting and at its most vulnerable.

Plant type : Flowering plant with colourful foliage and low habit
Season of interest : Summer for flowers, otherwise all year round
Size : 7.5-10cm (3—4in) tall
Flower : Five-petalled, 2.5cm (1 in) across, red
Leaf : 7.5-10cm (3—4in) long, 3-5cm (1 1/2-2in) wide, brown or bronze green, with pale veining
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 : Useful for group planting with taller plants in bowl where it can produce good cover