About
This tropical, evergreen perennial to 25cm tall, with 4-angled stems. From summer to autumn it produces purple-pink, 3-petalled flowers in clusters at the shoot tips. Glossy, dark green leaves are held on purple-red leaf stalks, and have pearlescent white spots on the upper surface, and purple veins beneath.
About the genus
Sonerila is a diverse genus of plants that may be annual, perennial, or woody. Species are cultivated for their flowers, foliage, or architectural habit and are adapted to various climatic conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toBurma to Indonesia
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in shallow pans of standard houseplant compost with added fine-grade, granulated bark, in bright filtered light. Maintain steady temperatures and high humidity to prevent leaf drop. When in growth, water moderately and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep just moist in winter
PruningPinch out shoots regularly to maintain bushiness
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings with bottom heat in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free