Episcia cupreata, commonly known as Flame Violet, isn’t a plant you’ll see everywhere you go. This makes it all the more exciting when you come across it. With its shimmering, velvety leaves and bright pink or red flowers it is attractive to foliage- and flower-lovers alike.
Flame Violets need a moderate amount of water; never let it sit in water or dry out too much. The leaves of this plant are fleshy and will rot easily if water gets on them. To combat this, water from the bottom of the pot by filling the tray with water and pouring off any excess after several minutes have passed. High humidity helps keep Flame Violets happy; provide it by using a humidifier or by placing your plant on a pebble tray or in your bathroom.
You’ll notice quickly that Flame Violets are vigorous growers, trailing here and there and sending offshoots in every direction. To keep them healthy you must fertilize regularly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer that contains both macro- and micro-nutrients at half the recommended rate. There is no need to fertilize in the winter.
Flame Violets are not particularly susceptible to any specific insects, but it’s good to check new plants over thoroughly before bringing them into your house. Inspect the plant and its pot again any time you bring it in from time spent outdoors.
Propagation of Flame Violets is very easy. The plantlets that grow on the numerous offshoots can be rooted in water and then snipped off and planted in their own pot, or take a plantlet or stem cuttings from the plant and then root them. Either way, Flame Violets are not difficult to get going.
Hanging baskets make nice planters for Flame Violets as they allow the plants to really grow to their largest. You may also decide to keep one on a table, trimmed neatly. Fortunately, Flame Violets are not toxic, so you don’t need to worry too much about keeping them out of the reach of pets or children.
