Species columnea Guide
orange-yellow flowers with green-purple leaves and burgundy stems

columnea

Columnea microcalyx

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Air Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

11 - 12

Flowers:

Orange-red with yellow throat Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

watering

Watering for columnea plants should occur approximately once per week, and you should aim to provide them with about 1 inch of water at each watering. If the soil is very dry, then you may need to water more often, up to twice per week. This plant likes moist, airy soil, so ensure that the soil drains well and never allows the plant to become overly saturated.

sunlight

Columnea microcalyx plants need at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive. When grown indoors, the plants should be placed next to the brightest south- or east-facing window. It is important to keep in mind that leaves may become scorched if the plant is exposed to too much direct sunlight. It is best to avoid intense mid-day sun and to shade the plant with a semi-sheer curtain or light cloth when necessary. In addition, too little light can cause the Columnea microcalyx to become leggy and weak, so it is important to provide the proper amount of light to this species.

pruning

Pruning of columnea (Columnea microcalyx) should be done regularly in the spring, when the new growth appears. Generally, this species should be pruned back about 1-third to 1-half of its height and width. In addition, dead stems and yellowing leaves should be removed during the pruning process. Pruning should be done carefully, as this species is fragile and not very tolerant of hard pruning.