An erect, compact, rhizomatous perennial to 30cm tall, with lance-shaped, velvety, dark green leaves to 7cm long. In summer it produces tubular pinkish-red flowers with darker red lines and spots on the petal lobes. All parts of the plant are covered in fine, white hairs
0.1-0.5 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Start the rhizomes into growth at 21°C in early spring. Grow in houseplant compost in bright, filtered light with high humidity. Using soft water, water moderately at first, then freely when in full growth. When flower buds appear, apply a high-potash fertiliser every 2 weeks. In autumn, remove dying top growth and keep almost completely dry. See houseplant cultivation for further details
Propagate by division in early spring
No pruning required
May be susceptible to aphids
May be susceptible to rhizome rots if overwatered