Episcia, often known as Flame Violets, are captivating houseplants cherished for their striking foliage and vibrant blooms. These members of the Gesneriaceae family, which also includes African violets, bring tropical beauty to indoor spaces. Relatively straightforward to cultivate, Episcias are a rewarding choice for many plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Episcia Varieties
An “Episcia variety” includes naturally occurring species, cultivated varieties (cultivars), and hybrids. The genus Episcia contains several recognized species, primarily native to tropical Central and South America.
Horticulturists have extensively hybridized Episcia species, particularly Episcia cupreata and Episcia reptans, to develop numerous cultivars. These efforts enhance ornamental traits like unique leaf coloration, intricate patterns, or distinct flower hues, resulting in a wide array of varieties.
Distinguishing Features of Episcia Varieties
Episcia varieties are differentiated by several key characteristics, primarily focusing on their remarkable foliage, but also including their flowers and growth habits. Leaf coloration exhibits a broad spectrum, ranging from various shades of green to bronze, silver, pink, red, and even deep chocolate. Many varieties display metallic reflections, giving leaves a shimmering, coppery, or silvery appearance.
Variegation is another prominent feature, with patterns of white, pink, or alternating shades adding complexity to the leaves. The texture of Episcia leaves can be velvety or smooth, with some varieties having ruffled margins. Vein coloration often contrasts with the leaf blade, sometimes forming intricate tricolored patterns.
Flower characteristics also vary among Episcia varieties. While many species produce bright red or orange flowers, cultivars can feature blooms in pink, lavender, white, cream, or even yellow. Flower shape is typically tubular with five open petals, though some varieties may vary in petal shape or size. Episcias are generally low-growing, stoloniferous plants that produce runners, similar to strawberry plants. This allows them to spread and form dense mats, suitable for trailing displays in hanging baskets.
Exploring Popular Episcia Varieties
‘Chocolate Cream’
‘Chocolate Cream’ features rich, dark brown, deeply wrinkled foliage with striking metallic pink venation, creating a netted appearance. Its orange-red or red tubular flowers contrast beautifully. This variety is an easy grower, making it a good choice for beginners.
‘Strawberry Patch’
‘Strawberry Patch’ has metallic rosy pink leaves with a distinct silvery center. Its velvety foliage and orangey-red flowers, sometimes with yellow accents, are notable. This variety has a compact growth habit, suitable for smaller spaces.
‘Pink Panther’
‘Pink Panther’ features intricate foliage combining green, bronze, and pink, often with silver or gold patterns. Its oval, velvety leaves display light pink to blush-pink tones with shimmering silver veins. This variety produces small, tubular pink or red flowers, and its compact, trailing habit suits hanging baskets.
‘Silver Skies’
‘Silver Skies’ has glossy silvery green leaves, often bordered by an olive green-brown edge. Its shimmering silver variegation and bright red or orange flowers are characteristic. This variety grows as a small, compact, prostrate herb, producing numerous stolons.
‘Jim’s Canadian Sunset’
‘Jim’s Canadian Sunset’ features bronze-colored leaves with green veining, sometimes including variegated patterns. Its pink flowers have dark pink flecking and a slightly yellow throat. This broadleaf evergreen perennial maintains its appearance year-round.
‘Cleopatra’
‘Cleopatra’ is a classic cultivar with variegated foliage, displaying deep pink leaves with green midsections. The textured leaf surface shimmers, and variegation can include pale pink, green, and white patterns. Its flowers are orange or orange-red, rarely produced. This variety has a low-growing, spreading, or compact habit.
Selecting Your Ideal Episcia Variety
Choosing an Episcia variety involves considering several factors to ensure it aligns with your preferences and growing environment.
Begin by identifying your desired aesthetic, focusing on leaf colors, patterns, and textures. Some varieties offer deep, rich hues, while others feature bright variegation or metallic sheens.
Consider the flower color, and whether it complements the foliage or provides contrast. Assess the available space; compact varieties suit tabletops, while trailing habits are ideal for hanging baskets or shelves. While many popular varieties are readily available, some unique or newer cultivars might be harder to find.