Achimenes

Description

Achimenes is a genus of perennial flowering plants that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family. Native to Central and South America, Achimenes is grown for its beautiful, tubular-shaped flowers that come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, blue, and white. These plants are also known as Cupid’s bower or hot water plant due to their tendency to wilt when exposed to cold water.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Lamiales
Family	Gesneriaceae
Genus	Achimenes

Appearance

Achimenes plants have soft, hairy leaves that grow up to 6 inches in length. The leaves are typically green, but some varieties have variegated foliage. The flowers grow on long, thin stems that rise above the foliage. The tubular-shaped flowers are about 1 inch long and have five petals that flare out at the end. The flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, blue, and white. Some varieties have speckled or striped petals, and some have a contrasting throat color.

Care Guide

Achimenes plants require moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:

Water: Achimenes plants like to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause them to wilt.

Fertilization: Feed Achimenes plants with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Use a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote flowering.

Soil: Achimenes plants prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to create a suitable growing medium.

Sunlight: Achimenes plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.

Hardiness Zones: Achimenes plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder zones, they can be grown as annuals or kept indoors during the winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Achimenes plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the leaves dry and remove any dead plant material. If you notice an infestation, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Achimenes plants are native to Central and South America, where they grow in tropical and subtropical regions. They prefer warm, humid conditions and can be found growing in shady areas of the forest floor.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Achimenes plant?

A: Water your Achimenes plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause them to wilt.

Q: Can Achimenes plants be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Achimenes plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight and are kept in a humid environment.

Q: How do I promote flowering in my Achimenes plant?

A: Feed your Achimenes plant with a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus every two weeks during the growing season. This will promote flowering.

Q: What is the best soil for Achimenes plants?

A: Achimenes plants prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to create a suitable growing medium.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:

• Gloxinia
• Streptocarpus
• Sinningia
• Columnea

References

• “Achimenes.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b566.
• “Achimenes.” The Spruce, 6 Feb. 2020, www.thespruce.com/grow-achimenes-plants-1402887.
• “Achimenes.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg027.