Petrocosmeas

Originating in Indo-China, these compact gesneriads, affectionately referred to as "pets", have blooms reminiscent of wild violets and symmetrical growing habits. We find that they grow very well with low to medium light levels, cooler temperatures, and a minimum of water and fertilizer. Requirements for artificial lighting would be around 8 to 10 hours. They will do well on the bottom shelf of "light stands" and near the end of the fluorescent light tubes. Use a light, porous potting mix, and grow them in small pots! Let the soil become fairly dry between waterings. They also do very well when "wick watered." Feed plants regularly, using a well balanced fertilizer, at ¼ tsp. per gallon of water, with every watering.