Episcia cupreata

Episcia reptans: Care and growing tips for a flamboyant plant

Episcia reptans, with its velvety foliage and bright red flowers, is a tropical houseplant that brings a touch of the exotic to your home. Its nickname "flamboyant" speaks volumes about its unique appeal.

Interest in terrarium

Episcia reptans is particularly suited to terrariums, where its need for high humidity can be easily met. It thrives in a warm, humid environment, making it an excellent choice for tropical terrariums.

Exposure and temperature

• Light: Episcia reptans prefers bright but indirect light. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
• Temperature: The ideal temperature for Episcia reptans is between 20°C and 27°C. It does not tolerate temperatures below 15°C.

Watering

• Moisture: Episcia reptans needs regular watering to keep the substrate constantly moist, but not soggy.
• Frequency: Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Water: Use room temperature, non-calcareous water to water your Episcia reptans.

Substrate

• Mix: Use a quality indoor plant potting mix for optimal drainage.
• Acidity: A slightly acidic substrate is ideal for Episcia reptans.

Fertilizer

• Timing: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer every two weeks.
• Dosage: Dilute the fertilizer halfway to avoid burning the roots.
• Reduction: Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.

Repotting

• Frequency: Repot Episcia reptans every 1 to 2 years , in spring, in a pot slightly larger than the previous one.
• Potting soil: Use fresh, well-drained potting soil for potting or simply live or dehydrated sphagnum moss.

Multiplication

Episcia reptans is easily propagated by leaf or stem cuttings, or by division of stolons, in spring and summer.

Mistakes to avoid

• Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Lack of light: A lack of light can weaken the plant and make its foliage dull.
• Too low temperatures: Too low temperatures can damage the plant.
• Drafts: Drafts can dry out the plant.

With its colorful foliage and vibrant flowers, Episcia reptans is the ideal plant to bring a touch of pep to your interior. Let yourself be seduced by its tropical beauty and ease of maintenance!

Additional Tips

• Humidity: To increase the ambient humidity, you can place a humidifier near your Episcia reptans or spray it regularly with non-calcareous water.
• Brightness: Artificial light can be used to supplement natural light, especially in winter.