Sinningia leucotricha

A Gloxinia relative in the Gesneriaceae, this Sinningia has an above ground succulent tuber which reward us with these beautiful flowers and fuzzy green leaves in the Spring every year.

Sinningia cardinalis

Spring is definitely here when the Sinningia comes to life with it's vibrant flowers and fuzzy leaves.

Sinningia cardinalis

A beautiful, caudex forming member of the Gesneriaceae, these plants are easy to grow. They go dormant during the winter but at about this time every spring, they put out new leaves and bright red flowers. During the summer, they appreciate adequate water and bright filtered sun or light shade.

Sinningia leucotricha

What's not to like about this Sinningia? It's easy to grow; it has gorgeous fuzzy-white leaves; and the flowers are fantastic. The tuber, which is usually grown with the top exposed, is just an added "plus" to all the above.

Sinningia leucotricha

Another sign of Spring. The Sinningia leucotrichas are budding up and their new leaves are spreading out, showing off their white fuzzies! In short order, large, tubular, pink-red flowers will also be showing their stuff.

So, when I get back from surgery - or at least soon after - I'll have this to look forward to:

Enjoy your plants!

Sinningia cardinalis

These have very large green leaves, not nearly as fuzzy as S. leuchotricha. They go dormant in the winter and come back strong in the Spring. The caudex can reach 30 cm. in diameter. Needs rich soil with good drainage, bright light when growing. They're native to Brazil.

Sinningia leucotricha

Not much to look at yet, but signs of growth as the bulbs come out of their dormancy.

The next one's a little farther along and you can see the flower buds developing.

And this is what we have to look forward to (photo from last year):

Ah, yes, Spring has sprung!

Christmas Greetings!

I may not be able to blog for the next couple of days, so...a few images to brighten the season:

Whether you are Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist ... or none of the above ... I wish you peace and love in this season. And especially for those of you who visit this blog periodically, best wishes for a season of blessings and a wonderful new year.

Siningia tubiflora flowers

The Sinningia tubifloras are blooming like mad right now. Wow!

Sinningia leucotricha

Another beauty at this time of year is Sinningia (syn. Reichsteineria) leucotricha. Also know as "Brazilian Edelweiss", this display is as consistent and dependable as you get in the plant kingdom. First the flowers and then the leaves, which keep getting larger and more impressive throughout the Summer. Plus, they have interesting tubers which can be raised above the ground for added interest. Who can resist?