Gloxinior

Gloxinia är en exotisk, blommande krukväxt som finns i handeln under vår och höst. På latin heter växten _Sinningia speciosa_ och det svenska namnet är Gloxinia.

Gloxinia – A Fascinating Flowering Houseplant

Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) is an enchanting flowering plant that captures attention with its extraordinary appearance and richly colored, bell-shaped blooms. The diversity within the species is remarkable; while all varieties share the signature bell-shaped flowers, these can differ significantly in size, form, color, and their arrangement on the stem. Most often, the dramatic blossoms rise above the foliage, becoming the plant’s unmistakable hallmark¹.

Originating from the warm, moist climate of South America—especially the tropical rainforests of Brazil—Gloxinia thrives in lush, humid environments. Imagine discovering this plant in its natural setting within Brazil’s rainforest, where Gloxinia grows in a stunning array of varieties and shapes².

Appearance and Varieties

There are two main types to discover among cultivated Gloxinias:

Large-flowered Gloxinia: These boast a luminous, velvety shine that conjures associations with sumptuous velvet gowns from the 17th century—deep colors, soft textures, and decorative frills. The feminine, luxurious allure of these blooms makes them a standout feature in any home.
Small-flowered Gloxinia: Nimbler and more delicate, these feature several dainty, slim bells clustered on a single stem, reminiscent of the airy, pastel dresses in Skagen paintings, or even the graceful costumes of ballroom dancing and carnivals.

Gloxinia’s leaves are softly velvety to the touch but can vary in shape and size depending on the species and variety. In the past, leaves tended to be large and unruly, but modern breeding has produced options with more compact, manageable foliage perfectly suited to windowsills and smaller spaces.

Cultivation and Display Tips

A Gloxinia in bloom is a feast for the eyes from spring through autumn, as its flowering depends greatly on light. The plant’s aesthetic versatility also opens up countless options for home décor:

Larger-belled varieties pair beautifully with heavier-looking pots made from metal or glazed ceramics, perhaps with decorative lion feet.
For more delicate blooms, opt for an elegant, light pot—slender, perhaps adorned with lace-patterns or a gently tapered shape, evoking the romantic spirit of 18th-century Rococo style.

Wherever you place your Gloxinia, let it claim a central spot. These flowers are best enjoyed up close, perhaps even viewed slightly from above to fully appreciate their texture and colors.

Care Instructions

Gloxinia is relatively easy to care for with the right attention:

Place it in a spot with bright, indirect light to partial shade, protecting it from strong direct sun.
Water with diluted plant food, carefully pouring to the side of the tuber and letting the soil dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering—especially after the tuber has formed—as excess moisture can cause rot.
High humidity benefits the plant, and it flourishes in normal room temperatures.
During winter, the tuber can be left to rest in its pot in a cool, dark place. Once new shoots appear, repot, prune away old growth, and resume careful watering.³

In the early stages, before the tuber is fully formed, attentive watering is crucial. With a bit of plant knowledge, green fingers, and luck, new shoots will eventually sprout from the dormant tuber even if the top plant has died back.

Avoiding Confusion

It’s not uncommon to confuse the popular Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) with another plant called Gloxinia perennis. Despite name similarities, these two plants are not closely related and should not be mistaken for one another.

Modern Varieties and Trends

If you’re interested in adding a Gloxinia to your collection, contemporary series such as Avanti® offer large-flowered types in up to eight dazzling colors. These modern varieties are compact, fitting easily on narrower windowsills, and their foliage has been bred to remain manageable and attractive⁴.

Like many classic houseplants, Gloxinia’s popularity has fluctuated over time, but today it is experiencing a vibrant resurgence. Its stunning blooms and rich history lend an enduring charm that never truly goes out of style.