Overview
Columnea hirsutissima is a trailing houseplants in the genus Columnea, part of the Gesneriaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Columnea hirsutissima grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include houseplants, hanging basket and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Columnea hirsutissima is a trailing evergreen houseplant cultivar within the Columnea genus, known for its trailing stems and thick, simple leaves. It produces solitary or clustered tubular flowers from spring through summer, emerging from the leaf axils. This cultivar thrives in partial shade with a sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils with an acid to neutral pH. Suitable for south, west, or east-facing positions, it is ideal for use in hanging baskets, conservatories, or greenhouses, and is hardy to UK zone H1c. Propagation is typically by softwood cuttings.
About the genus
Columnea is a genus of around 200 species of epiphytic herbs and shrubs in the family Gesneriaceae, native to the tropics of the Americas and the Caribbean. The tubular or oddly shaped flowers are usually large and brightly colored – usually red, yellow, or orange – sometimes resembling a fish in shape. A common name is flying goldfish plants due to the unusual flower shape.
Wikipedia contributors, "Columnea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Columnea
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Columnea
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1c
Plant details
Columnea hirsutissima size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Houseplants
- Habit
- Trailing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Hanging Basket, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Columnea hirsutissima
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs, Aphids, Cyclamen mites
- Disease resistance
- Root and stem rots
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Columnea hirsutissima?
Columnea hirsutissima prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Columnea hirsutissima need?
Columnea hirsutissima grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Columnea hirsutissima hardy in the UK?
Columnea hirsutissima 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 Columnea hirsutissima?
Softwood cuttings.