Gesneriaceae; native to tropical America.

Germination: Sow indoors anytime of the year for use as a container plant. For outdoor use, sow indoors in early spring, and maintain a temperature of 70° F. Germination takes 14-21 days. The fine seed requires light to germinate, so do not cover with soil.

Growth: During growth, plants require moderate light (or 12-16 hours a day of fluorescent light). Ideal temperatures are 65-70° F nights and at least 75° F days. Grow in rich, well-drained soil, water frequently and feed every other week with half-strength standard houseplant fertilizer.

Appearance and Use: A floriferous houseplant with waxy tubular blooms from spring through fall. Ideal for hanging baskets, planters, windowboxes, and patio containers. In warmer climates, it can be used in beds and borders. Hairy, toothed foliage of bright to dark green forms a lush background for waxy, 1/2- to 21/2 -inch tubular blooms of pink, blue, lavender, red, orange, yellow, or white. The upright, robust, often bushy plants grow 8-12 inches tall.