Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) is a stunning Brazilian native that brings theatrical elegance to indoor spaces with its large trumpet-shaped flowers reaching 4 inches across in lavender, purple, red, or white. The plant grows as a compact mound 6 to 12 inches tall and wide, with velvety ovate leaves arranged in a striking rosette that frames the blooms perfectly. Hardy only in zones 11-12, it thrives as a potted houseplant in temperate climates, offering seasonal bursts of showy flowers that rival any greenhouse specimen. The hybrids commonly sold under this name feature even larger blooms in an expanded palette of pastels, making them beloved by gardeners seeking dramatic indoor color.
Partial Shade
Moderate
11-12
12in H x 12in W
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Moderate
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Native to Brazil and related to African violets, gloxinia produces enormous trumpet flowers with a luxurious velvety texture that makes them irresistible to touch. The flowers range from deep purples and reds to soft pastels and pure white, and they emerge from a handsome rosette of equally velvety foliage. In zones 11 and 12 it grows outdoors year-round, but gardeners in colder climates can easily cultivate it as a spectacular seasonal houseplant by starting with tubers in late winter or early spring.
Gloxinia is grown exclusively as a flowering ornamental houseplant, prized for its dramatic seasonal blooms. The showy trumpet flowers make it a showstopper on windowsills, plant stands, and shelves during its blooming season. In zones 11-12, it can be moved outdoors during warm months to brighten patios and garden rooms.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Plant tubers indoors in late winter or early spring, pressing them half an inch deep into pots containing peaty, well-draining potting soil. Place pots in bright indoor light with no direct sun and provide consistent moisture from the start.
In zones 11-12, gloxinia can be moved outdoors in warm weather once established. In colder climates, it remains a potted houseplant and may be taken outside only during the warmest months, then brought back indoors before temperatures drop.
After the spring flowering is complete, cut the plant back to the first two leaves to encourage additional blooms and maintain a compact, bushy shape.
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“Gloxinia originates from the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where the species Sinningia speciosa evolved in the moist, shaded understory. The plant belongs to the Gesneriaceae family, which includes African violets and other beloved houseplants. The hybrids now commonly sold as florists' gloxinia were developed through deliberate breeding programs that enlarged the flowers and expanded the color range far beyond the original species, transforming a regional Brazilian treasure into an international houseplant favorite.”