Kohleria grandiflora

Kohleria are among my favorite gesneriads. There is a wide variety on foliage, growth habit, and blossoms among both the species and hybrids. When we had our greenhouse, a significant portion of a bench was devoted to the genus. I've been re-acquiring many of my old favorites and look forward to seeing them grow and bloom.

Kohleria grandiflora

One species I've been now growing for a while is Kohleria grandiflora. This plant bears a USBRG 98-259 label as well, meaning it came from the collection at the Smithsonian greenhouses. 

Kohleria grandiflora

This is the second bloom cycle I've had growing this species. The original plant had a couple of blooms but eventually grew unwieldy. It's a prolific producer of arial rhizomes — perhaps from inconsistent watering. This particular pot was started from cuttings in June and currently stands about 21" tall. I have a one light stand configured to allow plants to grow to about 24" tall, just for plants such as this.

The "mother plant"

I've read that Kohleria grandiflora is reluctant to bloom, and does not bloom heavily. Apparently I've found just the right combination of conditions. It's possible also the conditions are stressful enough the plant blooms out of desperation! In any event, I am pleased top have been rewarded with these stunning flowers.