Overview
Achimenes erecta is a bushy houseplants in the genus Achimenes, part of the Gesneriaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Achimenes erecta grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Despite its name, Achimenes erecta, this plant is a trailing achimenes. It produces a display of bright red flowers and dark green foliage. The flowers last only a few days, but are produced over a period lasting all the way from June to October. In the wild it grows across Caribbean, Middle America, South America, Belize, Colombia and other regions. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs a warm, frost-free position in the UK (RHS H1c). It works well for patio and container plants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and east-facing, south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Achimenes erecta
About the genus
Achimenes is a genus of about 25 species of tropical and subtropical rhizomatous perennial herbs in the flowering plant family Gesneriaceae. They have a multitude of common names such as magic flowers, widow's tears, Cupid's bower, or hot water plant.
Wikipedia contributors, "Achimenes", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Achimenes
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Achimenes
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1c
Plant details
Achimenes erecta size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Achimenes erecta
- Propagation
- Division of rhizomes in spring, Stem tip cuttings in spring
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Glasshouse red spider mite, Thrips
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Achimenes erecta?
Achimenes erecta prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Achimenes erecta need?
Achimenes erecta grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Achimenes erecta hardy in the UK?
Achimenes erecta has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Achimenes erecta?
Division of rhizomes in spring, Stem tip cuttings in spring.