Chrysothemis pulchella (kry-so-THEE-mis pul-KEL-uh) is a tender tropical perennial plant belonging to the genus Chrysothemis and the Gesneriaceae, most commonly known as the Gesneriad family (along with Achimenes, African violets, and Gloxinias).
It’s also one of the most widespread and widely cultivated Chrysothemis species.
The genus name Chrysothemis was believed to have originated from the Greek Mythology character, Chrysothemis, the daughter of Clytemnestra and Agamemnon.
In addition, the species epithet “pulchella” was derived from the Latin word, meaning pretty. It significantly references the lovely showy blossoms of this plant.
This tropical herbaceous plant is native to regions of Central America and northern South America and widely distributed to the Caribbean south and Brazil.
In addition, you can also commonly see this tropical flowering plant growing on moist slopes of tropical forests, about 100 meters above sea level.
Chrysothemis pulchella can also be found in Trinidad, where a Danish gardener discovered it and took a bag of cuttings with him.
Chrysothemis pulchella is well-known for its showy bright yellow or orange-red flowers with red streaks or spots and large, dark green leathery, ovate leaves.
This perennial plant has several common names, including:
- Black Flamingo
- Bronze Leaf
- Copper Leaf
- Chryothemis
Quick Facts On Chrysothemis Pulchella
- Family: Gesneriaceae
- Light: Filtered Sunlight; Partial Shade
- Temperature: 65° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Regular Watering
- Fertilizer: Half-Strength Fertilizer
- Propagation: Cuttings or Division of tubers
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, Whiteflies, Rot, Yellow leaves
Chrysothemis Pulchella Care
How Big Does Chrysothemis Pulchella Grow?
Chrysothemis Pulchella commonly grows upright, reaching an average height of about 12″ to 18″ inches with a spread of 12 inches in diameter.
On moist slopes of tropical rainforests, it can grow to 6′ feet high.
In addition, the growth habit and size of Chrysothemis Pulchella plants resemble gloxinia, with the older plants growing rather leggy and tall while young plants are compact and small.
When Does Chrysothemis Pulchella Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
Pulchella Chrysothemis is a showy tropical perennial flowering plant prized for its bright yellow flowers with red streaks or stripes that rest on an orange-red cup, lasting only 5 to 6 days.
The yellow flowers are encircled by bright orange-red bell-shaped bracts that become brighter when the flowers die.
The large, leathery leaves are dark green or bronze-brown with either ovate or spear-shaped. The leaves also have defined veins growing from the leaf axils borne from thick upright stems.
You can witness Chrysothemis in full bloom in spring with a faint, sweet scent right after its dormancy period, and this plant continues to bloom in the fall.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Chrysothemis Pulchella is a tropical plant that loves plenty of light but never direct sunlight as it may burn the leaves at its edges.
Instead, it thrives in the indirect morning light, partial shade, or filtered light in a south-facing window for encouraged growth.
It will grow best when it is kept at a reasonable temperature of 65° 75° degrees Fahrenheit.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Chrysothemis Pulchella?
Water your Chrysothemis regularly, especially during the growing season, to ensure consistent soil moisture.
But it’s important to remember not to overwater it, as soggy soil can injure and cause rot.
In addition, always use room temperature water when watering.
For fertilizer application, feed your Pulchella with half-strength fertilizer from summer to fall (March to October).
What Is The Best Soil For Chrysothemis Pulchella, And When Should You Transplant?
Chrysothemis pulchella thrives in moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH level of about 5.6 to 7.5.
It will also grow in excellent African violet soil.
You may also repot your Chrysothemis plant once a year or right after it doubles in size.
Does Chrysothemis Pulchella Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Chrysothemis Pulchella is generally low-maintenance, and pruning is unnecessary.
However, if desired, you may remove withered, declining, or dead leaves and out-of-bounds shoots to maintain their beautiful appearance.
How To Propagate Black Flamingo Plant?
The black flamingo plant can be propagated through two methods, namely:
- Cutting
- Divisions of tubers
For cutting propagation, it’s best to do it between May and October, but it can also be done any time of the year.
You can either do cuttings from stem or tip shoot.
Make sure it consists of a piece of stem, a leaf, and a leaf bud for stem cuttings.
For tip shoot cuttings, here’s how to do it:
- Take tip cuttings or cut back long stems from an older plant.
- Plant the cuttings in soil with moist humus.
- Cover the container with a plastic bag.
- Place the container or pot in a warm place and with enough light.
This method will only take 7 to 14 days to produce roots.
For dividing tubers, it’s best to do it in spring. Make sure the tubers have eyes and plant them in a pot with fresh soil.
Sunset Bells Pests And Diseases
Sunset bells are generally pest and disease-free plants but may occasionally be a target of the following:
- Mealybugs
- Whiteflies
When exposed to the hot sun, the leaves of sunset bells are prone to yellowing and injury.
If you notice soft stems and droopy leaves, it may be because of soggy soil, little water, or dry air.
Uses Of Sunset Bells
Sunset bells are widely grown and cultivated for their showy bright yellow flowers, making them excellent window houseplants or potted plants.
They can also be used as interior ornamental plants in gardens and greenhouses or as decorative houseplants in a shade area or patio.