Smithiantha ‘RF’s Catalina’: A Cheerful Winter Display

I recently mentioned the vibrant winter displays offered by the genus Smithiantha. Another plant in our collection has now joined the show, brightening these dark days: Smithiantha ‘RF’s Catalina’. I’ve been growing this plant for a couple of years, and this year it’s putting on a truly spectacular display.

Smithiantha 'RF's Catalina'

The blooming spikes on this particular plant are not as upright and erect as those of other Smithiantha I’ve grown. This may be partly due to the stems growing tall and pressing against the lights on the stand. I recently moved it to a taller light shelf, but even then, it was crowded among other plants.

To better appreciate its beauty, I decided to bring Smithiantha ‘RF’s Catalina’ upstairs to our living room table, where it can be fully enjoyed. I sometimes lament that so many of our blooming plants remain downstairs under the lights, out of sight and unable to be fully appreciated.

Smithiantha 'RF's Catalina'

The plant’s bright pink and cream blossoms bring a cheerful brightness to the room, while its fuzzy, green-edged red foliage adds a striking touch to the overall display. It’s a wonderful reminder of how much joy these winter bloomers can bring when given the spotlight they deserve.