2x Gloxinia 'Kaiser Friedrich' red-white

Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) thrives in humus rich, fertile soil. Normal potting compost is suitable. Make sure you use a pot with holes in the base to provide adequate drainage and and place a layer of pot shards or clay pellets on the bottom. Fill the pot almost entirely with potting compost and lay the Gloxinia tubers in the pot. Cover with about two centimetres of soil and press firmly down. Water immediately. A sheltered, partly shady spot is fine. Do protect the Gloxinia from full sun and draughts. Gloxinia on your patio Your Gloxinia will be fine standing on your garden table in the summer, as long as it is not in full sun. Always a lovely welcome sight! Here too, do not allow the pot to dry out.

Sinningia speciosa requires feeding every time you water it but use only a quarter of the dosage recommended on the pack. Try to use rain water as this is much softer than tap water and will be much appreciated by your Gloxinias. A small amount of water daily is better than a large amount weekly! Water only the soil and not the leaves. Up to the flowering season, the potting compost must not dry out but after flowering, in the autumn, you can stop watering the Gloxinias. Getting your Gloxinias through the Winter Sinningia speciosa tubers are easily stored over the winter if kept dry and free from frost. Allow the plant to dry in the autumn and cut it right back. Shake off excess soil from the tuber and its roots. Place in a box of compost or sharp sand and store at no less than 10°C. Pot up your Gloxinias again from the end of January in fresh potting compost. Place the pot in the living room and water regularly. Your Gloxinias can go outdoors from June - keep out of the full sun.

Gloxinia is a jewel from the subtropical jungles of Brazil. This plant will shine on your patio or decking but will also thrive well in your living room, or perhaps in the greenhouse. Easily grown, this plant will flower the whole summer long. The large furry leaf is also very decorative.