Episcia dianthiflora, known as the “Lace Flower Vine,” is a captivating houseplant celebrated for its delicate beauty. It showcases unique white, fringed flowers resembling intricate lace, contrasting with its attractive foliage. Its leaves are often velvety green, sometimes displaying silvery patterns or light red veins. As a small, trailing plant, it is well-suited for terrariums, hanging baskets, or as a lush groundcover indoors. It is a member of the Gesneriaceae family, making it a close relative of the popular African violet.
Episcia dianthiflora Care
Light
Episcia dianthiflora thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath the canopy of tropical forests. Placing the plant near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window provides suitable conditions. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, causing discoloration. Insufficient light can hinder flowering and cause legginess.
Water
Consistent moisture is important, but the soil should never become waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Using room-temperature, non-calcareous water, such as rainwater, helps prevent leaf spots. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Humidity
High humidity is important for Episcia dianthiflora, as it originates from humid tropical regions. Maintaining humidity levels of at least 60% benefits its growth and flowering. To increase humidity, place the pot on a pebble tray, use a room humidifier, or group plants together. Terrariums are also an excellent environment for meeting humidity requirements.
Temperature
An ideal temperature range is 65-80°F (18-27°C). It does not tolerate temperatures below 59°F (15°C) and can suffer damage or die if exposed to prolonged cold. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts to prevent plant stress.
Soil
A well-draining, airy, and humus-rich potting mix is essential. A mix formulated for African violets works well, or a custom blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Good drainage is paramount to prevent root rot. A slightly acidic pH, around 6.0, is also beneficial.
Fertilizer
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Episcia dianthiflora benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. Reduce or stop fertilization during winter months when growth slows. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn or excessive foliage growth, reducing blooms.
Propagating Episcia dianthiflora
Episcia dianthiflora is readily propagated through its stolons, specialized runners produced by the plant. These stolons often develop small plantlets at their tips, ideal for propagation. One method involves rooting the plantlet while still attached to the mother plant by pinning it onto moist soil in an adjacent pot. Once rooted, the connection to the mother plant can be severed.
Alternatively, stolons can be detached and rooted in water or a moist potting medium. A stolon with at least two pairs of leaves and 1-2 inches of stem is suitable for cutting. Remove any leaves that would be buried in the soil to prevent rotting. Placing the cutting in a humid environment, such as a covered container, aids rooting.
Common Problems and Solutions
Lack of blooms often points to insufficient light, inadequate fertilization, or low humidity. Adjusting the plant’s location for brighter indirect light, ensuring regular feeding during the growing season, and increasing humidity can encourage flowering. Providing consistent care helps the plant direct energy towards producing its distinctive flowers.
Brown or crispy leaf edges indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing humidity with pebble trays or humidifiers, and maintaining a consistent watering schedule, can alleviate these symptoms. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Yellowing leaves can signal several issues, with overwatering being a common cause. Allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings and ensuring proper drainage can prevent this. Other factors include nutrient deficiencies or excessive direct sunlight. Evaluating light conditions and fertilizer regimen can help identify the cause.
Common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs may affect Episcia dianthiflora. Regular inspection of foliage, especially the undersides of leaves, allows for early detection. Treating infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil is effective. Maintaining high humidity can also help deter spider mites.