Closely related to the African violet, gloxinias produce trumpet-shaped flowers in a variety of colours. They bloom indoors in late winter and early spring, with the blooms nestled in velvety, green foliage. These plants require proper care to thrive and bloom again, as gloxinia are not evergreen houseplants. After blooming ends, the foliage goes dormant for several months while the plant rests. New growth resumes after two to three months and the plant flowers again the following season.
Fill the gloxinia pot's drip tray with 1 inch of gravel. Add water to the tray until the moisture level sits just beneath the top of the gravel. Set the gloxinia pot on top of the gravel. The water in the tray provides humidity for the plant.
Set the pot in an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day. Choose a location with a 75-degree daytime temperatures, and a nighttime temperature that doesn't drop below 65.
Water gloxinia when the soil surface starts to feel dry. Water at the base of the plant until the excess moisture begins to drip from the bottom of the pot. Empty the excess water from the drip tray so the water level remains just beneath the top of the gravel layer.
Fertilise gloxinias at each watering with a soluble 15-15-15 fertiliser. Apply the fertiliser at the rate recommended on the package label.
Reduce watering once flowering is finished, allowing the foliage to yellow and die back naturally. Stop watering once the foliage has died back completely.
Place the dormant gloxinia in a cool, dark room for eight to 10 weeks, then resume watering. Move the pot back to the brightly lit area and resume normal care once new growth begins to show.
Gloxinia are both disease- and pest-resistant.
Tips and warnings
- Gloxinia are both disease- and pest-resistant.