| Description: |
Rampant vines in tropical areas which are surprisingly adaptable to basket use by choosing the correct varieties. Brilliant papery bracts cover the plant with color when in bloom. |
| Environment: |
Suitable only for a greenhouse |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in full sunlight coming from the South/East/West |
| Soil Type: |
A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take:
1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime.
Always use a pot with a hole.
|
| Watering: |
Drench the soil and let it become moderately dry between waterings. If you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed weekly with a water soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter. An alternative is a granular slow release fertilizer if applied annually in the early spring. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to mealy bugs, aphids & spider mites. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Stem cuttings
in the summer.
It is best to propagate stem cuttings in a mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band to prevent moisture from escaping. Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its regular mix after it has been growing for a while.
|
| Gardening Tips & Care: |
Mist and keep cool during the winter months. Will not bloom in low light. Needs something to climb or support if it is planted in a pot. If possible put outside for the summer in full sun. Prune in the fall or after flowering.
|
| Bonsai: |
Species of this Genus are a a candidate to bonsai. |