Gloxinia
sinningia speciosa
Also known as: ["Florist's Gloxinia","Florist Gloxinia"]
Overview
A popular houseplant known for its large, velvety flowers and broad, dark green leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus: | Sinningia |
| Botanical Name: | Sinningia speciosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or shaded outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; avoid intense afternoon sun; move indoors if outdoor conditions are too harsh.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), monthly in fall, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust for plant size.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of basal offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for blooming.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or bud drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or yellowing in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in winter.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Sinningia speciosa, which can lead to severe cardiac and gastrointestinal distress. Toxicity can occur even with small ingestions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Sinningia speciosa can cause severe cardiac issues in dogs, leading to arrhythmias and potential heart failure. Even small amounts can be harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSinningia speciosa contains cardiac glycosides that can disrupt heart function when ingested in significant quantities. The effects are generally mild in humans but can be more pronounced in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sinningia speciosa?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Sinningia speciosa need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Sinningia speciosa turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or poor drainage. Adjust watering habits and ensure proper soil aeration.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light or parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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