Columnea praetexta is a trailing gesneriad with vibrant red, tubular flowers and fuzzy foliage, native to Ecuador. It thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves. Prefers east or north-facing windows.
Keep consistently moist but not waterlogged.
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining, peat-based mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
50% intensity
Prefers 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Indoor
50% intensity
Feed during growing season.
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted, every 4-6 weeks. Do not fertilize in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and allow for slight drying between waterings.
Reduce watering frequency during the cooler, dormant winter months to prevent waterlogged conditions and potential fungal issues.
Prune to maintain desired shape and encourage bushier growth. Trim back leggy stems to just above a leaf node. Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing foliage promptly.
Pruning is best done in early spring before the main growing season begins.
Propagate from stem cuttings, typically 10-15 cm long. Take cuttings from healthy stems in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep moist and warm until roots form.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring, at the start of the active growth period.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Columnea Praetexta (Columnea praetexta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Columnea |
| Species | Columnea praetexta |
Similar in genus Columnea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
