The Kohleria eriantha, known as the Monkey Ears Plant, is a captivating houseplant cherished for its distinctive visual and tactile qualities. This evergreen perennial features olive-green, fuzzy leaves, often highlighted with reddish hairs. Its tubular, often orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers frequently display yellow spotted throats. These vibrant blooms, sometimes appearing year-round, make the Monkey Ears Plant a popular choice for adding color and an unusual aesthetic to indoor spaces.
Caring for Your Monkey Ears Plant
Light
Monkey Ears Plants flourish in bright, indirect light, which encourages abundant blooms. Placing them near a south or west-facing window with filtered light, such as through a sheer curtain, provides ideal conditions. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch their leaves. Insufficient light results in leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Water
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. This prevents root rot, a significant threat from overwatering. If underwatered, leaves may wilt, indicating a need for moisture. The plant stores water in its rhizomes, tolerating brief dry periods, but consistent moisture during the growing season supports vitality.
Soil
The ideal soil for Monkey Ears Plants is a well-draining, airy, and slightly acidic medium. A peat-moss based potting mix, similar to African violets, provides a suitable foundation. Incorporating perlite or vermiculite enhances drainage and aeration, essential for healthy root development and preventing waterlogging. This substrate helps maintain moisture balance without becoming overly saturated.
Temperature and Humidity
Monkey Ears Plants thrive in average room temperatures, 65-75°F (18-24°C). They are sensitive to cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below 60°F (16°C). These plants appreciate moderate to high humidity, ideally above 50%. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray filled with water or a room humidifier. Directly misting is not recommended, as fine hairs on the leaves can trap moisture, leading to spots or fungal issues.
Fertilizer
During its active growing season in spring and summer, the Monkey Ears Plant benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. A high-phosphorus formula, such as a 10-30-10 blend, can promote more prolific blooming. Reduce or cease feeding entirely during fall and winter months when the plant’s growth slows.
Propagating Monkey Ears Plant
Propagating Monkey Ears Plants is straightforward, achievable through stem cuttings or by dividing rhizomes. Stem cuttings are a common method for creating new plants. To propagate, select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a leaf node, ensuring the cutting is 4-6 inches long. Remove lower leaves, leaving a few at the top.
Plant cuttings in a moist, well-draining rooting medium, such as perlite or seed-starting mix. Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can encourage faster root development. Covering the potted cutting with a clear plastic bag or placing it in a propagation tray with a lid helps maintain the high humidity needed for successful rooting. Roots typically form within 4-6 weeks, after which the new plant can be cared for as a mature specimen.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves are a common issue, signaling either overwatering or underwatering. Soggy soil can cause root rot, leading to yellowing and wilting. Prolonged dryness also causes wilting and yellowing. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow topsoil to dry between waterings resolves these issues.
A lack of blooms often stems from insufficient light or nutrients. Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light and consistent fertilization during the growing season to encourage flowering. Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can affect the plant. Spider mites create fine webbing and stippling on leaves, while mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. Treat these pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil to protect the plant.
Is Monkey Ears Plant Toxic?
The Kohleria eriantha, or Monkey Ears Plant, is considered non-toxic to humans and pets. This makes it a suitable choice for households with children or animals. While not known to be toxic, prevent ingestion by curious pets or small children. In the unlikely event of ingestion, consult a veterinarian or poison control center.