Overview

Achimenes longiflora is a bushy houseplants in the genus Achimenes, part of the Gesneriaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.6 metres tall. Achimenes longiflora 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

Achimenes longiflora has many common names including Cupid's bow, nut-orchid, and magic flower. It can grow up to 60 cm (24 in) long, arising from small rhizomes. The hairy leaves have saw toothed edges and can be up to 90 mm (3+1⁄2 in) long and 40 mm (1+1⁄2 in) wide. The flowers are produced from June to October and are usually blue with a white throat. It is native to Caribbean, Middle America, South America, Colombia, Costa Rica and other regions. In the garden it prefers full sun and partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs a warm, frost-free position in the UK (RHS H1c). Suggested uses include 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 longiflora

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 longiflora size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

0.6 metres

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Achimenes longiflora

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