Whether to grow trailing gesneriads in pots, hanging baskets, or other African violet relatives, the choice may depend on the availability of suitable containers. Ordinary clay pots can be used, but so-called “orchid pots,” with extra holes for drainage, are probably a better choice. In either case, a generous layer of “crocks” should be placed … Read more
Indoor gardeners who have filled every window with pots of African violets are now extending their interest to trailing plants belonging to the same gesneriad family. Five close relatives of this popular house plant can be grown successfully under the same conditions as African Violets and with an even greater decorative effect. Pendant stems of … Read more
The Gesneriaceae family appeared in the social register of plant aristocracy when cousin saintpaulia, more commonly called the African violet, became the nation’s number one house plant. Since that time other deserving members of the family, such as Sinningia, achimenes, and episcia, have become better known. The streptocarpus member of the family makes an exceedingly … Read more
When a friend sent me a strange-looking creeping rhizome labeled tydaea, it seemed that the loosely put-together little white tuber could never produce a spark of life. But, I planted it ½” inch deep in a light mixture of sand, peat, and good loam. The soil was moistened, and I set the pot away in … Read more
Though long overshadowed by the most popular member of the Gesneriaceae family, the African-violet, other lesser-known members are now coming into their own. Two gesneriads, the colorful gloxinia, and episcia (flame violets), have already become popular. Many indoor gardeners who are experts at raising African violets want to know more about its less celebrated cousins. … Read more