How do you care for a gloxinia?
How do you care for a gloxinia?
The gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) is a flowering houseplant related to the African violet. Plants produce large, velvety, bell-shaped flowers that may be white, pink, red, purple, or blue. Gloxinias are commonly sold at florist shops and greenhouses in late winter and spring. 
Place plants in a brightly lit location in the home. Gloxinias prefer temperatures of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The potting soil should be kept evenly moist. When given good care, plants may bloom for several weeks.
Most gloxinias are discarded after flowering. However, plants can be coaxed to bloom again if given proper care. Gloxinias need to rest after blooming. To induce dormancy, gradually cut back on watering. When the foliage dies back, trim it off and place the pot in a cool (55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit), dark location. Let the gloxinia tuber rest for 2 to 3 months. When new growth appears, carefully remove the tuber from the old potting soil and repot in new material. Place the gloxinia in a brightly lit, warm (65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit), humid location and resume regular watering.
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