Overview
Achimenes pulcherrima is a bushy houseplants in the genus Achimenes, part of the Gesneriaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Achimenes pulcherrima 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 pulcherrima is a bushy cultivar of the Achimenes genus, known for its perennial nature and rhizomatous growth. These plants produce long, trailing stems with simple leaves arranged oppositely or in whorls. This deciduous cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade, favouring moist but well-drained loam soils with a range of pH levels. Best suited for sheltered, east-, south-, or west-facing aspects, it is ideal for patios, containers, or conservatories. Achimenes pulcherrima is hardy to H1c and can be propagated by division of rhizomes or stem tip cuttings in spring.
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 pulcherrima 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 pulcherrima
- 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 pulcherrima?
Achimenes pulcherrima prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Achimenes pulcherrima need?
Achimenes pulcherrima grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Achimenes pulcherrima hardy in the UK?
Achimenes pulcherrima 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 pulcherrima?
Division of rhizomes in spring, Stem tip cuttings in spring.