Codonanthe

Family. Gesneriaceae.

Origin. Central and South America.

Description. Codonanthe is a small genus of 15 species that are often grown as houseplants. It has long, fragile, brown, recumbent stems. The leaves are bright green, elliptical, oblong-lanceolate or rounded, shiny, up to 5 cm long, collected in whorls. On one plant, you can simultaneously see small flowers and spectacular berries. The flowers are funnel-shaped, with 5 round, waxy petals, white, pink, yellow, greenish, about 2 cm in diameter. The plant produces attractive orange or red, spherical fruits. When crossed with nematanthus, a plant with brighter flowers is obtained - codonanthus.

Height. 10 - 46 cm.

Temperature

The optimal temperature range is considered to be 18 - 24 ° C all year round. Codonanthe should not be exposed to temperatures below 13°C. 

Flowering time

Summer.

Soil

Nutritious, loose soil; a mixture of 1 part peat, 1 part vermiculite and 1 part perlite is suitable. 

Lighting

Codonanthe is grown in a well-lit place without direct sunlight. 

How to care

A fairly unpretentious species that is quite easy to grow at home. To ensure that the bush develops thick and symmetrical, periodically turn the pot with different sides towards the light source.

Reproduction

Propagate by stem cuttings about 10 cm long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the base in rooting powder. Place in a mixture of damp peat and sand, cover with glass and keep in a warm place without direct sunlight. Sow seeds in spring, sprouts appear within 1 month.

Feeding

During the period of active growth, feed 2 times a month with fertilizers in half concentration, since the codonanthe has a delicate root system that can be easily damaged by too strong a solution. Since this plant leads a semi-epiphytic lifestyle in nature, it responds very well to foliar feeding.

Purpose

A small indoor flowering plant that will look great in a hanging basket with the long stems cascading over the edge. 

Air humidity

Like most tropical indoor species, it loves high humidity and will look attractive with periodic spraying. Do not place the flower pot near heating devices that dry the air. Needs frequent ventilation without cold drafts.

Irrigation

Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly. Mature plants are more drought-tolerant; water them so that the top 3 cm of soil dries out between waterings.

Transfer

Replant in the spring if the soil needs to be replaced or the plant is too crowded in the pot. The root system of codonanthe is superficial and can be planted in shallow bowls. In order not to damage the delicate root system, use transshipment - do not destroy the earthen ball.

Pests and diseases

Powdery mildew due to insufficient air movement. If there is excess moisture, the plant rots. The edges of the leaves become dry and brown when there is a lack of atmospheric humidity.  Among the harmful insects, aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites can pose a certain danger. 

Note

Codonanthe can live indoors for many years with proper care.