Episcia cupreata 'Zebra' - Flame Violet

This Episcia, related to African Violets, has beautiful foliage and blooms! Its textured leaves have silver-green shot down the middle and along their veins, and a deep burgundy in between. Its bright salmon-pink flowers stand out boldly between the foliage, adding bold colour to the beauty of the foliage. Episcia is also known for its ability to flower year-round in the wild, and as a houseplant in the UK will flower from spring through to autumn.

Scientific Name
Episcia cupreata 

Common Name
Flame Violet

Origin
Native to tropical areas in Central and South America

Light
Episcia can handle some direct sun, but are best out of the hottest afternoon sun. An east or west-facing window or greenhouse will work well here.

Water
This plant likes its soil consistently moist, but won't do well sat in a permanent puddle. Water little and often for best results.

Humidity
Used to tropical jungle, these plants like high humidity. If you notice the tips of its leaves going brown and crispy, your Episcia will benefit from a humidity tray to increase local humidity.

Soil
Use a mix that drains well while retaining moisture. Components like bark, perlite and coir can help with this.

Food
Feed every couple of weeks with high-potassium fertiliser (e.g. a tomato feed) in the growing season.

Temperature
This plant needs to stay above 15°C year-round; temperatures around 20-25°C are ideal.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
Moisture and humidity are key for keeping this plant happy! A stable, humid environment will help keep the soil from drying out too quickly. An easy way to increase local humidity is to create a humidity tray with pebbles, grit or semi-hydro in a tray or in the bottom of a cache pot.