Achimenes care and cultivation on wick irrigation reproduction

Achimenes flowers: types, varieties

Achimenes is a beautiful indoor flower, very easy to care for.

Flower shapes have two types:

1. Long pipe finish.
2. Bowls with five blades.

Achimenes belong to the Gesneridae family, their closest relative is Gloxinia. Flower varieties are so diverse that they are further divided into groups:

1. Height type:
   Erect (Erecta). They have tough shoots that shoot upward. Suitable for decorating window sills and shelving.
2. Ampelous (Longiflora, Cattleya). Due to the presence of flexible shoots, the flowers seem to hang down. That is why they are often placed in hanging flowerpots.
3. Flower size (diameter in parentheses):
   Small-flowered (up to 3 cm).
4. Medium-flowered (from 3 to 4.5 cm).
5. Large-flowered (over 4.5 cm). The most famous varieties are Rose, Kim Blue, Ring of Winsdor, Bright Rose.
6. Flower type:
   Terry (Abendrot, Alter Ego, Bianco Natale).
7. Simple (Aquamarine, Apple Cider, Argentina). Note that terry varieties began to appear quite recently. Breeder Serge Salibe took an active part in this process. Nuance! Simple varieties bloom more abundantly than double varieties.
8. Color palette:
   Blue and light blue (Aquamarine).
9. Pink and coral (Little Beauty, Pink Beauty).
10. Red and scarlet (Master Ingram, Flamingo).
11. Purple and lilac (Chiapas, Haage, Purple King).
12. White (Juaregia, Schneewitschen, Snow Queen).
13. Yellow and ivory colors (Yellow Beauty, Paul Arnold, Clouded Yellow).

Plants are seasonal, so it is extremely important to provide them with dormancy during the colder months. Flowering is long lasting, lasts from early summer to autumn

Achimenes varieties and species

Upright varieties include:

Achimenes Serge Saliba is a wonderful terry variety! Having bright and large flowers (usually with a pink tint), usually not a tall bush, about 15 cm, flowering is average in abundance.

Achimenes Yellow English Rose large-flowered (more than 6 cm in diameter). Since the bush is quite lush and has large, heavy flowers (the largest of all bred varieties), it needs support. The flowers are light yellow with a lilac border, double.

Achimenes Cote d'Ivoire is a delicate white flower, gradually turning into a rich yellow color, and then into a delicate lilac border. Additional petals often emerge from the center of the flower.

Achimenes Sauline are medium sized flowers. The corolla is pale yellow in color, with a smoothly gradating pink-violet finely toothed border. There is a bright yellow spot inside the flower. The leaves are pale green. Rhizomes are white.

Achimenes Limoncello is a tall bush with double, soft yellow flowers that needs support. Flowers reach 3 cm. They may not be fully open, remaining semi-double. A special feature is that, depending on the conditions, this hybrid may have a bright red color on some of the flowers.

Achimenes Nero is a lovely miniature terry Achimenes in a bright crimson hue! It grows as a branching bush and is not afraid! Heat and direct sunlight. Very compact. The flowers are slightly smaller than average, about 2.7-3 cm in diameter.

Achimenes Abyss is a small but very branched bush with bright purple flowers with a yellow spot inside with brown spots.

Achimenes Sun Wind

It is a hybrid with flowers of a soft pink hue (slightly smaller in size than average), which fade as the flower ages. The lush flowering lasts quite a long time (up to 2 weeks). The bush is quite tall, but it rarely needs support. A characteristic difference is the presence of a brown-yellow spot in the center of each flower.

Achimenes Petite Fadette grows as a miniature bush, blooming very profusely with double bright scarlet flowers. Stems and rhizomes are burgundy.

Achimenes Icy Volga large snow-white double flowers growing abundantly on a compact bush. A soft brown center against a dazzling white background. Additional petals on the inside. Loves shade.

Achimenes White Glory is a large-flowered (about 5cm) snow-white achimenes with a small pale yellow spot in the center. However, it may acquire a lilac tint when the temperature drops. Quite compact.

Achimenes Silvia Cagnani double Cool pink color, medium-sized flowers, can be either double or semi-double. The bush is only upright with elastic shoots and does not require support, because the flowers are not very heavy. As it ages, the color fades.

Achimenes Nana Renee flowers are large, velvety. Deep purple. The bush is semi-ampelic and very compact.

Cascading Achimenes include:

Achimenes Abendrot is more of a cascading double species with a subtle yellow-pink hue. It is considered quite “capricious” and requires especially careful attention.

Achimenes Dot has rather large soft lilac flowers with purple rays from the center. It blooms for a long time and very abundantly. The leaves are narrow and dark burgundy on the back.

Achimenes Etienne Andersson

Released in 2013. Ampelous with double flowers of rich crimson color. Blooms profusely and for a long time.

Achimenes Purple King is a gorgeous cascading bush. Achimenes classics. Large purple flowers from spring to late autumn.

Achimenes Yellow Fever is a bright yellow double Achimenes with an orange border around the edge. The flower size is small, about 3-3.5 cm. Flowering is very abundant.

Rules for caring for Achimenes

Description of ferocactus, conditions for its cultivation and types
The rules for caring for the achimenes flower are not too complicated. It does not tolerate strong temperature changes, low air humidity, or cold drafts. Otherwise, the plant causes virtually no trouble.

1. Optimal temperature. From the moment the rhizome (scaly rhizome in the form of a nodule) awakens, throughout the entire growing season and flowering it is necessary to maintain a temperature of about +22...23°C. In autumn, when the rhizomes begin to prepare for dormancy, the temperature is gradually reduced to +15°C.
2. Lighting. Achimenes love bright light, but do not tolerate direct sunlight. Sensitivity to light largely depends on the variety. Plants with variegated leaves are more susceptible, so it is recommended to shade them. Varieties with dark leaves tolerate moderate amounts of direct sunlight without harm. Both of them will feel great on windows on the western side, but on the southern side it is better to shade them slightly. If possible, pots with plants can be taken outside or onto an open balcony.
3. Watering. During the growing season, flowers require abundant watering. But you need to make sure that there is no stagnation of water. Holes are made at the bottom of the pot to ensure good drainage. The flower does not like water getting on it, so watering is carried out directly under the root or in a tray. The water temperature for irrigation should be slightly higher than room temperature. During the flowering period, watering is carried out every 3 days, after its end - their frequency gradually decreases.
4. The soil. Rhizomes of Achimenes are planted in fertile, light, breathable soil. You can buy ready-made soil for Saintpaulias or prepare it yourself. The optimal ratio is one part of peat, perlite or coarse sand and humus. It will be useful to add a little hydrogel or finely chopped sphagnum to the finished substrate so that the soil is consistently moist. Achimenes respond well to adding a small amount of cow manure to the soil.
5. Spraying. Plants cannot be sprayed. If water drops on the leaves, it will leave brown spots on them. To increase humidity, spray the air only around the plant, making sure that moisture does not fall on the leaves. You can use another option - pour a little water into a container, cover it with pebbles and place the pot with the plant on top so that its bottom does not touch the water.
6. Feeding. For the first time during the season, the flower is fed only 3-4 weeks after the first shoots appear. Complex mineral fertilizers are used. While Achimenes is blooming, fertilizing is repeated every two weeks. After flowering ends, they stop completely. Abundant and frequent fertilizing can reduce the intensity of flowering, so using mineral fertilizers more than twice a month is not recommended.
7. Dormancy and pruning. From mid-autumn, the leaves of Achimenes begin to gradually dry out. At this time, rhizomes collect nutrients, drawing them from the soil and leaves, so pruning is carried out only after the above-ground part of the plant has completely dried. The pot with rhizomes is put away for the winter in a dark place with a temperature of about +15°C. In winter, the soil is moistened very moderately and no more than once a month. It is carefully moistened with well-settled water along the edge of the pot. High humidity can cause rhizomes to wake up prematurely.

If Achimenes “woke up” ahead of time, then for its normal development it is necessary to provide good lighting with fluorescent lamps.

Growing

In order for your pet to enjoy its successful appearance, it needs the following care at home. During growth, there should be a moderately warm temperature - in summer from +23 to +26 ° C. Flowerpots can be placed on the balcony or kept near an open window, since warm drafts are not scary for it. But the slightest coolness can damage this plant. If the temperature drops to +15° C, then growth slows down and it prepares for wintering.

In winter, it needs a period of rest - it goes into hibernation at a temperature of +10° C. In autumn, the above-ground part of the plant dries out, and the entire supply of nutrients accumulates in rhizomes (rhizome tubers). After flowering has finished, the plant is prepared for hibernation by gradually reducing its watering.

During the growth period, it loves a large amount of diffused light, but it needs to be shaded from direct sunlight.

Proper care of a handsome man also implies a good supply of moisture. You need to water with water slightly above room temperature. But the adult specimen does not like spraying - spots appear on wet leaves. It is enough to humidify the air near the shoots, or place containers of water nearby. This will stimulate better flowering and also improve overall development.

Varieties

Achimenes cote d'ivoire

Ficus benjamina: photo, description, growing conditions, home care

It was obtained as a result of selection by Serge Saliba in 2007. It has rich and varied semi-double flowers with a border. The name of the hybrid speaks for itself. They are medium in size, ivory, soft yellow with light lilac spots on the petals.

Achimenes hard to get

The name translates as “difficult to obtain.” Most likely, they had to work hard on him during selection, since he received such a name. With good fertilizer, rich in phosphorus and potassium, and regular watering, you will get double pink-raspberry or cold cherry flowers with yellow strokes and crimson dots around the throat.

Achimenes glory

A small, hybrid, compact plant, characterized by excellent and long-lasting flowering. Bright large coral-red colors with light centers will definitely delight you with their beauty if you install it on the windowsill in your room.

Achimenes amie saliba

The hybrid appeared 6 years ago, but continues to be popular. It looks like a neat bush. Its flowers are large, sunny, “canary-like”, the edges of the petals are pink. The leaves are light green.

Achimenes strawberry lemon

The name of this miracle translated means “strawberry-lemon” and successfully states its appearance. It looks very beautiful when lemon yellow and soft strawberry colors smoothly flow into each other; over time, the petals can acquire shades of peach and salmon. It depends on the growing conditions.

Achimenes charm

“Charm” refers to hanging plants. The height of its weakly branched erect stems reaches 60 cm. It looks rich with large and bright flowers measuring 4-6 cm in diameter. The corolla is coral-pink with an expressive amber spot, as well as a red-brown speck at the throat. If you provide it with the maximum possible lighting, fresh air and abundant watering, then it will definitely please you, especially in hanging flowerpots.

Achimenes sauline

It is very beautiful, thanks to its small, pale yellow flowers. Along the edges of the slightly wavy petals there is a fuchsia border. The closer to the center, the lilac dots and strokes underlying the golden color become less noticeable. It may fade in bright sun, so it is recommended to keep the flowerpot in partial shade.

Achimenes blueberry lemon

Due to the impressive size of the bush, it requires supports. Its flowers are soft lilac, with a yellow center. The name translates as “Blueberry Lemon”. Depending on the conditions of detention (temperature during flowering, feeding), dominance of one or another tone is possible. An additional petal may form in the throat.

Achimenes pink double

Bush variety. The flower is very delicate, despite its rather large size, up to 5 cm, which is above average. It looks voluminous, terry and can have a range of colors from pale pink to rich pink with a creamy yellow spot in the center.

Achimenes golden lady

Created in 2007, a bush semi-double variety with interesting dark burgundy stems. Gives the impression of a calm color thanks to the light yellow flowers with an admixture of lilac shades at the edges. Medium size and pastel colors. Color may vary depending on temperature. Around the center, where an additional petal sometimes forms, is golden yellow.

Achimenes rainbow warrior

Interesting name, translated means “Warrior of the Rainbow”. It looks very attractive, you want to look at and notice all its nuances. There are specimens with 6 cm buds. Their color varies from lilac to purple. Closer to the middle there are strokes and shadows of cherry, burgundy or dark brown shades. The variety is powerful and tall. You can grow it in an ampoule, but if you are going to use a pot, be sure to choose a stable one.

Achimenes peach glow

Received it as a result of selection of R. Brumpton in 1980. “Peach Blush” has small simple flowers, one might even say small, about 2.5 cm, of a peach hue with a golden throat, the edge of the petals is decorated with carvings.

Common varieties of Achimenes

Achimenes Tetra Klaus Neubner (“Tetra Klaus Neubner”)

A distinctive feature of this species is the lilac-violet corollas. At the same time, the edges of the petals are darker. The central part of the inflorescence is colored yellow. There is also a maroon pattern on a yellow background. The bush is compact, profusely flowering. The buds can grow up to 7 cm in diameter.

Achimenes Serge Saliba

This variety was bred by breeder Serge Salibay in 2007. Achimenes Orange Orchard and Yellow Queen were taken as the basis. The result was a compact plant with erect shoots. The color of double flowers is complex, for example, if the throat is yellow, then the edges of the petals are pink-orange or salmon. There are brown spots around the corolla.

Achimenes Yellow English Rose

A distinctive feature of this species is that its flowering resembles that of an English rose. He was bred by breeder Serge Saliba. The plant is famous for its large double yellow inflorescences, which can reach 6 cm in diameter. The petals have fringed edges.

Video Achimenes Yellow English Rose

Achimenes Purple King

The species is notable for its purplish-violet corollas and fringed petal edges. The dark green leaves of the Purple King variety are characterized by a bronze tint, and their undersides have a reddish tint. The shoots of young plants grow straight, but after a while they take on an ampelous shape. The central part of the flower is yellow. It also has dark brown flecks. Also worthy of special attention is the Purple Kimono variety, whose corollas are painted wine-purple.

Achimenez Etienne Andersson (“Etienne Anderson”)

The buds of this variety are large. The terry corolla is colored apricot-pink. On the reverse side the petals are lighter. The plant tolerates direct sunlight well. It can be grown in small flowerpots and hanging pots. The small leaves are colored green. With proper care, the bush will bloom long and profusely.

Achimenes Silvia Cagnani ("Silvia Cagnavi")

The double and semi-double petals of this species are bright pink. In the central part there is a yellow spot, on which there are red-brown inclusions. The flowers grow medium in size. The shoots of the bush are erect and elastic. In this case, the stems do not need support, since the flowers of Achimenes are light in weight. Over time, the petals become pale pink or ashen in color when exposed to sunlight.

Achimenes Rainbow Warrior

The Rainbow Warrior species is characterized by blue-violet corollas. In the central part of the large flower there is a yellow core surrounded by a light halo. The petals at the base are decorated with dark purple strokes and dots. The front side of the jagged leaf is dark green, the back side is burgundy. With proper care, the bush blooms profusely and for a long time. Erect shoots are painted dark burgundy. By the way, the name of the variety is translated as “rainbow warrior”. The diameter of the flowers reaches 6 cm.

Achimenes Abyss (“Ebis”) with photo

The inflorescences of this compact and self-branching species are of medium size. The plant is characterized by a terry blue-violet corolla and green leaves. At the same time, the underside of the petals is light. Near the throat there is a yellow core, on which there are thick brown specks. The shoots of the bush grow straight. The oblong rhizomes are painted white and burgundy.

Achimenes Nightfall

This species is characterized by double and semi-double, dark cherry petals. Both semi-double and double inflorescences can grow on the bush at the same time. The plant has erect shoots on which glossy dark green leaves grow. The name of the variety can be translated as “twilight”. With proper care, densely packed flowers grow. The maximum buds can grow up to 3 cm. With sufficient light, fertilizer and nutrition, the bushes will delight you with their excellent flowering abundantly and for a long time.

Achimenes Sauline

The flowers of this species are painted in a delicate light yellow color. The edges of the finely toothed petals are decorated with a pink border. There may be chimeric strokes on the surface of the petals. There is a bright yellow spot in the central part of the flower. The shoots of the bush are erect, but if desired, this species can be grown as an ampel. The buds grow to medium size. The shade of the petals depends on the growing conditions.

Achimenes Yellow Fever (“Yellow Fever”)

The double and semi-double petals of this species are bright yellow. In this case, the edges of the petals may be lighter, and sometimes pink. This ampelous variety is distinguished by abundant flowering. The size of the flowers reaches 3–3.5 cm. Green leaves grow to medium size. If desired, you can form beautiful cascades from the shoots. A bush of this variety needs at least two pinchings. The perennial is resistant to environmental factors. Therefore, it can be grown in almost any conditions. The large flowers resemble a rose in appearance.

Achimenes Honey Queen

The large flowers are yellow. The edges of the petals have a lilac-violet tint. A distinctive feature of the Honey Queen variety is the presence of light spots on the edges of the petals. The shoots of the bush are semi-drooping. With proper care, the bush produces abundant flowering. It is recommended to grow it in partial shade, as the variety does not tolerate direct sunlight.

Achimenes Queen of Lace

This species is characterized by terry corollas, colored in lavender. The petals are distinguished by an embossed relief surface and small teeth on the edges. This variety is easy to care for. The densely packed buds grow to medium sizes.

Achimenes Hard to Get

The Hard to Get variety is notable for its medium-sized terry burgundy and cold burgundy corollas. Around the pharynx there are yellow strokes and red-cherry spots and dots. With proper care, the bush will delight you with abundant flowering for a long time. The shoots of this variety grow straight.

Achimenes Peach Orchard "Peach Orange"

This abundantly flowering, compact plant variety is notable for its double corollas, painted in a bright peach color. The name of this species translates as “peach garden.” The flowers grow small. This perennial belongs to the hanging varieties. To obtain larger and fuller inflorescences, it is recommended to keep the bush in diffused light.

Achimenez Cytro with photo

The plant is notable for its double yellow corollas, growing up to 3.5–4 cm. At the same time, there are red strokes and spots on the edges of the petals. A compact bush with proper care branches well.

Achimenes Boehme

The diameter of double or semi-double flowers of bright pink color can reach 7 cm. The shoots of the plant are erect. White rhizomes have an oblong shape. The bush grows tall. Therefore, he needs additional support. With proper care, the perennial delights with its long and abundant flowering.

Achimenes Ivory Queen

The Ivory Queen variety is notable for its terry corollas and embossed petals, painted ivory. This hybrid has erect, self-branching shoots. With proper care, the bush blooms profusely.

Achimenes Nocturne

Terry corollas have a rare dark red color. The flowers grow up to 4.5 cm in diameter. The petals on the reverse side are painted in a light contrasting shade. Burgundy rhizomes have a cord-like shape. The variety is hanging, but if you install supports, it can be grown as a bush.

Achimenes Golden Lady

The “Golden Lady” variety has corollas painted in a soft yellow color, while the edges of the leaves have a lilac-pink tint. An additional petal may also grow from the central part. The shoots of the Golden Lady variety grow straight. The flowers are medium in size.

Achimenes Ice Tea

A distinctive feature of the Ice Tea variety is its burgundy-pink corollas, which have a peach tint in the center. The variety is also characterized by wavy petals. Lilac-violet rhizomes have an oblong shape. This hybrid plant can be grown as an ampel. The variety is characterized by abundant and long-lasting growth.

Achimenes Caprice

This compact, profusely flowering variety is notable for its petals with coarsely wavy purple edges. The core of the plant is yellow. There are strokes and dots of a rich brown color on it. An additional petal may grow from the throat. The shoots grow straight. This compact plant has green colored leaves. The oblong rhizomes are colored white and pink.

Achimenes Femme Fatale

The variety "Femm Fatal" is notable for its double blood-red corollas. The reverse side of the petals is white. The core of the flower is yellow with brown spots. Leaves are pubescent. The medium-sized leaves are colored light green.

Achimenes Lavender Fizz

The variety differs from others in its terry corollas, painted in a bright bluish-lavender color. At the same time, the underside of the petals is light. Large flowers. The petals are textured, dense, and have a lighter color on the reverse side. The shoots grow straight. The medium-sized, light green leaves have a jagged, pointed shape.

Achimenes Tamara Khorkina

The Tamara Khorkina variety is notable for its terry white corollas with pink-red tones. Color saturation changes depending on temperature. The shoots of the bush are erect. This compact variety is characterized by abundant and long-lasting flowering. The perennial needs at least two pinchings at an early stage of growth.

Achimenes Purple Triumph

A plant with lavender-purple textured petals. A feature of the “Pearl Triumph” variety is its long and abundant flowering. This species belongs to the ampelous plants. The reverse side of the green carved leaves is painted burgundy.

Achimenes Sweet and Sour

The variety is notable for its orange-peach corollas. Sometimes the petals can take on a completely orange tint. The yellow center is decorated with cherry blossom dots and streaks. Flower size is medium. The shoots of the bush grow straight. The stems are brown and the leaves are green.

What is Achimenes, description, photo

Achimenes

Achimenes Pers belongs to the Gesneraceae family and is a relative of the well-known and very decorative Saintpaulias, Gloxinias, and Streptocarpus.

In nature, Achimenes most often grow in the mountains, starting from 300 meters and ending at 2300 meters above sea level. They can settle in rock crevices, but most prefer soils in tropical forests and along river beds. There is almost as much shadow in their habitats as there is sun. The climate here has a clear division into dry and wet seasons, which determines the characteristics of the growing season of plants.

When kept in a room, Achimenes behaves in the same way as in nature: it has a period of active growth, which begins at the end of February, beginning of March, and a dormant period, which lasts from the end of October to the end of February. In general, the dormant period lasts from four to six months. In old varieties it is longer than in new hybrids.

Planting Achimenes

Preparing soil and containers

Achimenes require light, fertile, breathable soil. Typically, for planting, a ready-made substrate for Saintpaulia is used, with the addition of various loosening components - perlite, vermiculite, coconut substrate, as well as finely chopped moss - sphagnum or hydrogel - to maintain soil moisture.

Rhizomes are planted in a pot one at a time, but more often in groups of several pieces, then you can get a more “richly” flowering plant.

To plant one rhizome, you need to select a pot with a volume of at least 0.7 - 1 liter, if there are several rhizomes, then even more. The pots need to be wide, because Achimenes have a shallow root system.

Planting of Achimenes rhizomes is usually carried out in early spring, and at this time the active sowing period begins - transplanting seedlings and indoor flowers. Therefore, to save space on the windowsill, rhizomes can be planted first in a small container, and as they grow, transfer the plants.

It is necessary to put drainage at the bottom of the pot to avoid stagnation of moisture.

Planting dates for rhizomes Achimenes

Achimenes are usually planted with sprouted rhizomes (with sprouts).

This process usually begins in February - March. During this period, the daylight hours are already long enough and young plants begin to grow and develop well.

But it happens that rhizomes begin to emerge from dormancy much earlier - mid-to-late December. In this case, you need to reduce the storage temperature of rhizomes to +5...+8o. C, then the seedlings will stop growing.

You can plant early sprouted rhizomes of Achimenes, but only with the condition that the plants must be provided with additional lighting.

Planting Achimenes rhizomes step by step

• To prevent problems in the development of Achimenes, it is advisable to soak the rhizomes in a fungicide solution before planting. For example, “Fitosporin” or a weak solution of potassium permanganate.
• The planting material must be spread horizontally over the soil surface, and then covered with a 0.5-2 cm layer of soil. The larger the rhizome, the larger the soil layer.
• There is no need to cover rhizomes with film.
• After planting rhizomes in pots, they need to be provided with bright, diffused lighting, air temperature +18...+250C, and moderate watering.
• The appearance of Achimenes sprouts from the ground usually begins after 2-3 weeks.
• If sprouts do not appear for a long time, then to stimulate germination you can water with warm water (50-55 degrees) or a solution of a growth stimulator (Zircon, HB-101, etc.).

Care

At home, it is very easy to provide Achimenes with complete care. It provides for the creation of such conditions for plants as:

• soft and sufficient lighting throughout the day;
• optimal temperature;
• regular but moderate watering;
• sufficient humidity and air ventilation;
• fertilizing with complex fertilizers during the period of intensive development;
• quality soil.

Illumination

Achimenes are sensitive to light deficiency, so the best place for them is window sills in the western and eastern parts of the home. On a window in the northern part the plant will not have enough light, and in the southern part it may become a victim of direct sunlight.

Temperature

These exotic plants love warmth and do not tolerate cold weather and temperature changes. Even a drop in air temperature to 20° can cause achimenes significant discomfort.

The optimal temperature range for keeping these delicate plants is considered to be 22-25°. At this temperature, Achimenes will feel normal both on the balcony and on the open terrace

However, when keeping plants on the balcony or outside, it is important to monitor meteorological forecasts. At the first threat of night cold, flowers must be brought into the house

In winter, when the plants are in the dormant phase, it is advisable to maintain the temperature at 18-19°. For Achimenes, which are in a state of winter sleep, this temperature range will not cause stress.

Watering

These beautifully flowering perennials do not tolerate drought or excess water well. A lack of moisture in their case can stop flowering, and an excess of it in the soil can cause rotting and death of the roots.

Achimenes need to be watered regularly, but only as needed. During the period of intensive development (after emerging from the winter sleep phase), plants require sufficient and moderate watering. Reduce watering of flowers as much as possible while they are in the winter dormant phase. During this period, plants are watered no more than 1-2 times a month. When watering, a stream of water is directed along the edge of the pot.

Humidity

Despite the fact that these beautifully flowering perennials do not have high humidity requirements, they do not like dry air. In order for plants to feel comfortable, gardeners recommend keeping wide containers filled with water near the pots.

Also, these flowers really need high-quality air ventilation. However, drafts are contraindicated for them

It is extremely important to provide moderate ventilation indoors during very hot weather.

Feeding

For young, actively developing and flowering achimenes, timely feeding is extremely necessary. Most often, they are carried out once every 7-10 days, using special complex fertilizers for indoor flowers. Fertilizing with Fertika Lux gives very good results.

During the formation of buds, it is recommended to feed plants with fertilizers containing phosphorus and potassium.

Fertilizing with a high nitrogen content should be applied with caution, since an excess of this element in the soil mixture can provoke vigorous development of green mass and weak budding

For very young Achimenes growing root mass, phosphorus-based fertilizers are recommended. This element plays an important role in the proper formation of roots. Typically, at this stage, flower growers use the “Rikat Start” product.

Priming

These flowers feel most comfortable in a loose and nutritious soil mixture with good moisture and air permeability. It is allowed to grow Achimenes in peat-based substrates. Ordinary soil mixed with coarse sand or perlite is also suitable.

Care errors and their elimination

The table contains frequently encountered problems when growing Achimenes and their elimination:

Mistakes and care problems

What does Achimenes look like?

Achimenes (Achimene) is a perennial herbaceous plant no more than 30 cm high. The shoots of the bush are quite fleshy, the leaves have a glossy surface, an oblong shape and a dark green hue with clearly visible veins and jagged edges. The indoor plant is distinguished by the friendly appearance of several buds at once. The flowers are small and slightly shaped like a gramophone. The root system of Achimenes develops as rhizomes - bulbs, externally covered with small scales.

Achimenes

History of appearance

In the wild, the plant is distributed in Central America and Mexico. The first written mention of it was found in the scientific works of one of the biologists who studied the flora of Jamaica. A detailed description of the flower was compiled back in 1756.

Achimenes varieties by color

For example, for those who want to grow bushes with yellow flowers, you can pay attention to the following varieties:

• Achimenez Sun Dance. A peculiarity of this species is the presence of an original brown-red speck located in the central part of the bud;
• Jimenez "Giselle" Giselle.

Varieties whose buds are colored lavender and purple include:

• Achimenes Avender Fancy (“Lavender Fancy”);
• Tropical Dusk (“Tropical Dusk”);
• Daisy Boo (“Daisy boo”);
• Peach Blossom;
• Snoweetta;
• Hugues Aufray;
• achimenez lavender fancy;
• Achimenes Venice (“Venice”);
• Achimenes Poseidon “Poseidon”;
• Vivid (“Vivid”);
• peach blossom;
• purple kimono.

Varieties whose inflorescences are colored pink include:

• Achimenes Sabrina;
• achimenez Painted Lady;
• Achimenes Peach Glow (“Peach Glow”);
• Veronika Gotmanova "Veronica".

Varieties whose buds are colored red include:

• Achimenes red Stan`sa Delight (“Stans Delight”);
• Lady in Black

How to grow Achimenes from cuttings

The most common way to increase the number of pots with achimenes is propagation by cuttings.

To do this, cut off the top shoot or side leaf from an adult plant and plant it in the ground under film or glass.

Cuttings need to be watered regularly, it is important that the soil is always moist

For intensive growth, use enriched leaf soil mixed with sand in equal parts. Also use growth stimulants or an additional heat source. After a month, the cuttings will get stronger and need to be transplanted to a permanent place.

Achimenes is an unpretentious plant that can decorate a home in winter and a garden plot in summer. It is enough to acquire one sprout of this beautiful flower to turn your home into a real garden filled with the bright colors of Achimenes flowers.

Features of caring for Achimenes

In order for the plant to feel good and give wonderful flowering, it is necessary to create conditions that are closest to those in which it grows in nature. Proper care and cultivation of Achimenes implies compliance with the following requirements:

Location and lighting are important for growth; The temperature regime must be observed so that the plant does not die; Proper watering and maintaining air humidity; Achimenes needs to be fed periodically.

Choosing a location and lighting features

There is enough light in the tropics, so our flower also needs bright, but diffused light. The lighting needs of different types of Achimenes are different: plants with dark leaves love more light. But they can hardly tolerate direct sunlight, and burns of buds and flowers are possible. The flower will be best placed on the windowsill of western and eastern windows, or, in extreme cases, oriented to the southwest or southeast. Protection from direct sunlight during midday is mandatory. Daylight should last from 10 to 12 hours, as in the tropics.

There are selective hybrids on sale with their own lighting preferences. They usually have young shoots of achimenes that are dark green in color. Such plants will do well even on the windowsill of a south-facing window. At different stages of development, this flower reacts to lighting differently. According to the recommendation of Serge Salib, before the formation of buds, Achimenes will be comfortable in bright sunlight. At this time, even a south-facing window will suit him. The beginning of the formation of buds is associated with relocation to a semi-shaded place, since bright sunlight is harmful for the blossoming buds.

Temperature

During the active growing season, Achimenes loves warmth, such as in its homeland. This is no less than 22-25 degrees. In summer it tolerates temperatures up to 30 degrees. But lowering it below plus eighteen is disastrous for him. It is not for nothing that the name of the flower Achimenes, translated from Greek, sounds like “not tolerant of cold.” If your pet Achimenes spends the summer outdoors, be sure to bring him inside during cold spells or cold nights. During the rest period the picture changes. At this time, the best temperature for it is from 8 to 15 degrees. At higher temperatures, Achimenes may exit the dormant state earlier, which is not desirable.

Irrigation regime and humidity requirements

The soil in the pot should be moist, but not waterlogged. If water has accumulated in the pan after watering, it must be poured out. It is better not to allow the soil to dry out. Water the achimenes only with settled water. Hard water is softened by adding a few citric acid crystals.

The temperature of the water used to water the achimenes should be two degrees higher than room temperature.

This flower is very sensitive to air humidity. It must be at least 60%. However, wetting flowers and leaves with water is unacceptable. This causes dark spots to appear on them. Therefore, spraying cannot be resorted to. You can increase air humidity by installing evaporators or placing the flower in a tray with moss soaked in moisture. It’s a good idea to spray the air around the achimenes from time to time, protecting the leaves. With the onset of the dormant period, the need for watering disappears. Only light wetting of the top layer is required once a month. During preparation for plant rest, the amount of water during irrigation and its frequency are gradually reduced.

Feeding is a necessary element of caring for Achimenes

They begin no earlier than a month after germination and continue throughout the flowering period. Feed with a complex fertilizer for indoor plants, for example, “Kemira Lux”, once every ten days: before flowering, fertilizer mixtures for ornamental deciduous plants are needed, by the time a sufficient number of leaves grow, namely at the beginning of summer, fertilizer mixtures for flowering plants are used periodically once a month.

The fertilizer mixture must contain microelements and contain calcium. With very active flowering of Achimenes, it is possible to apply fertilizer with each watering, but in a small dosage. It is good to alternate mineral and organic fertilizers. They should be given in the form of mullein infusion in a dilution of one to fifteen. In August, Achimenes should be additionally fed with potassium fertilizer, for example, potassium sulfate, the dosage is indicated in the instructions, and organic fertilizers should be abandoned, thereby reducing the proportion of nitrogen. The last feeding is carried out no later than 1.5 months before the onset of the dormant period.

Home care

Lighting

They love light and sunlight. However, you need to ensure that the leaves are not exposed to direct sunlight. Excessive heat will harm them. In the shade, Achimenes will lose its bright, rich color. Therefore, you need to find a place where the ratio of shadow and light will be normal.

Temperature

This plant is not very picky about the temperature in which it grows. However, you should place the pot only in places where the temperature rises above twenty degrees. The best temperature for full development varies from twenty to twenty-four degrees.

If the temperature on the balcony does not experience sudden changes, then this place is suitable for a flower. It is advisable to remove the plant at night. With the onset of spring, the temperature in the room may become lower. However, even during Achimenes’s sleep, it should not be lower than ten to fifteen degrees.

Humidity

It is desirable that the air is well humidified. If it is clear that the plant does not have enough moisture, additional spraying is necessary. However, you must be careful not to overdo this process. After all, excessive spraying will only do harm. Spots form on the leaves.

If it is possible to make a stand with moistened pebbles, then you should do it. Thus, the humidity will become even higher. It will be good if there is an aquarium next to the plant. The water will evaporate, which means the air will also become more humid.

Watering

• During the growing season, you need to water regularly and abundantly. After the plant wakes up. Doses of water are increased gradually. In summer, doses should be especially large. The main thing is that the water is warm.
• Care must be taken to ensure that water does not accumulate in the pan. Otherwise, this may lead to the formation of rot in the roots.
• As soon as autumn arrives, watering should be done less frequently and not so abundantly. As the leaves wilt, the amount of water should decrease. As a result, while the Achimenes flower is dormant, it should be watered no more than twice a month.

The soil

Needs loose soil. To make the correct mixture, you need to take three parts of leaf soil, add two parts of turf soil and cover with one part of sand. You can put a little peat and humus. They will be useful.

If there are no components from which such a mixture could be prepared, you need to go to the store and buy achimenes soil for ornamental crops. Before planting the plant, drainage must be done.

Transfer

If it is necessary to replant the plant, it is advisable to carry out this procedure at the end of February. Just at this time, Achimenes is just waking up. Rhizomes must be laid down and covered with soil. The height of the substrate level should not exceed half a centimeter.

Fertilizer

Only those achimenes that have begun to bloom need to be fed. The procedure should be carried out no more than twice a month. Moreover, if the plant began to bloom immediately after it was transplanted, you need to wait some time and only then start fertilizing.

Rest period

In autumn, the leaves of the plant turn yellow and fall off. This is a sign that the plant is preparing for sleep. Watering should be done less frequently. Everything that has dried up and died must be cut off. The roots are left in the same place. It is necessary to moisten the soil no more than once a month. At the beginning of March, containers with roots are returned to their original sunny place.

Care and cultivation at home

Video about caring for and growing Achimenes:

The indoor flower Achimenes is a light-loving plant. But note that the light intensity depends on the type of plant.

If the leaves are dark, a lot of bright light is needed, and direct sunlight cannot harm the flower. If the form is variegated, a bright, diffused room or a slight darkening is perfect. But it is better to avoid direct sunlight, as there is a risk of burns on the leaves.

Air temperature and humidity

During active growth, the recommended temperature is from 20 to 25°. In October, the temperature must be gradually reduced so that the roots gain strength and are ready for the dormant period.

Humidity should be high, but it is forbidden to spray water on the leaves, otherwise rot and mold will appear. To increase humidity, you can spray the air around the flower or pour wet pebbles into a tray. The bottom of the pot should not come into contact with water. If water gets on the leaves, there is a high risk of brown spots.

Watering

Requires abundant watering during the growing period. For this purpose, settled water is used. But stagnation of liquid should be avoided so that rot does not form. In addition, you should avoid getting water on the leaf plates. A syringe is used for watering. The water temperature is slightly above room temperature.

Fertilizers and fertilizers

Feeding begins a month after the appearance of young shoots. Fertilizer should be mineral based. It is applied once every 2 weeks. As soon as the flowering period ends, you can stop feeding.

Rest period

When caring for Achimenes at home, it is very important to correctly treat its dormant period.

In autumn, the leaves of the plant begin to dry out. After trimming, the pot is removed to a cool and dark place, temperature – 15°. Watering should be reduced from the end of September. After pruning, the soil should be moistened once a month with a small amount of water. If you use a lot of water, the plant may begin to grow.

If the flower wakes up ahead of time, move it to a bright place.

At the end of March, a period of active growth begins. Achimenes needs to be regularly watered and fed until next autumn. Place the pot in a warm room with a temperature of about 22°. Having plenty of light is important. After this, active growth and the appearance of buds begins.

Trimming

After the part of the bush dries above the ground, pruning can be done. If you do it earlier, the roots will not have time to receive from the plant the nutrients needed during the dormant period.

Transfer

Typically, the rhizomes of the plant grow at temperatures from 18°. Abundant watering and light play an important role. If you store rhizomes in sand in winter, active growth begins after transplanting into a pot.

Replanting is needed if the indoor plant has grown too large and requires a larger pot. It is also performed if Achimenes has been attacked by insects or diseases. Can be replanted in another soil if more nutrients are needed.

The transplant is performed in early February. The roots are quite short, so a low pot will do. If the root is too large, it can be divided into parts and planted in several pots. You need to cut the roots so that there are growth points on all sections. After the cut area has dried, it is sprinkled with coal in powder form and planted in the substrate. A drainage layer is made at the bottom, filling half the pot. Pieces of brick or expanded clay are suitable for this. The drainage layer is covered with soil. The composition may be as follows:

• leaf soil with sand;
• sand and peat;
• humus, sand and leaf soil.

Any mixture requires the use of a small amount of fine coal. Place the root in the pot, pressing it slightly into the soil. Add the mixture.

Video about pinching achimenes and caring for them at home:

Maintaining humidity, how to water Achimenes

Humidity in the room. Humidity conditions when caring for Achimenes at home are very important. Air humidity should be high, since the plant naturally grows in a tropical climate. However, you should never spray the leaves of the flower. Humidity is increased by spraying air around the pot. It is also worth placing a tray with wet expanded clay or pebbles under it. The bottom of the pot should not come into contact with the water in the pan. Moisture getting on the foliage can cause problems. Brown spots may appear on the leaves.

During the growing season, caring for Achimenes flowers should include abundant watering. To do this, you need to let the water sit until it becomes soft. When watering, you need to control the amount of moisture in the soil. The roots should not be constantly in excessively wet soil.

As already mentioned, caring for the Achimenes flower at home should be careful. Leaves should not be watered. This harms the plant. Watering is best done with a syringe or using bottom watering through a tray. It is advisable that the water have a temperature slightly above room temperature.

Description

Achimenes is native to the American continents. Since the end of the 18th century, the plant was brought to Europe from the Caribbean islands. In the 19th century, the flower was actively selected, and by the beginning of the 20th century many hybrids had appeared. Nowadays, agronomists continue to work on developing new varieties, the Romanian scientist Serge Saliba was especially successful, who bred about 200 species of this beautiful plant.

Achimenes are perennial flowers of the Gesnerieceae family, with thin drooping stems, some varieties have an erect stem. For example, the only species that does not grow in America, but in South India, is endowed with just such a stem. The leaves are pubescent, with a rich color at the bottom. Single and paired inflorescences are fixed in a thin five-leaf calyx.

Achimenes suspend their vital activity, freezing from mid-autumn to early spring (for 4-6 months), when daylight hours become short. In this case, the ground part completely dies off. They reproduce by rhizomes, which are small scaly shoots that resemble very young fir cones. The plant does not have underground tubers, and rhizomes, appearing on the rhizome, play the role of seeds in the reproduction process. From late winter to mid-spring, young shoots appear, the first harbingers of “awakening”.

Botanical description

The plant is perennial, the roots are scaly. Flowers are paired or single. All plant species have pubescence. The stems may be branched and the leaves may have serrations, depending on the variety. After opening, the flowers quickly wither, but new buds appear in their place. Different colors: purple, pink, red, yellow and others.

Flowers may have patterns in the form of dots, stripes or specks.

Used in the interior as an hanging plant, in hanging baskets and wall planters.

How to store Achimenes rhizomes in winter

Achimenes can be harvested for the winter only after the above-ground part has died off. It will not fade or turn yellow, but will become completely dry.

Achimenes overwinter at temperatures not lower than 10 °C. They cannot be placed in the refrigerator. The optimal temperature during the resting period is considered to be 12 °C, but it is difficult to achieve it in a city apartment.

The flower survives well from year to year in warmer conditions. The main thing is not to place it near heating devices, or in a place with high humidity. Still try to keep it cool.

To preserve Achimenes rhizomes until spring at a room temperature of 18-20 ° C or higher, they need to be watered once a month. A little, so as not to wet, but only slightly moisten the surface of the soil. Otherwise, the rhizomes will dry out very much and may not wake up.

A temperature of 18-20 °C is far from optimal, and if it is higher, only a few of the largest rhizomes from the collection can survive if kept completely dry.

Overwintering of Achimenes in the ground

The easiest way to preserve Achimenes rhizomes is directly in pots in winter. They are placed in a cool, dark place. And they forget until February. Of course, if the winter is really cool. Otherwise, the pot needs to be watered occasionally and little by little.

Sometimes at the end of the season the rhizomes protrude from the substrate. They cannot be left open. A 1.5-2 cm layer of dry peat should be poured on top.

If you plan to plant flowers, it is not recommended to wait for the sprouts to peck. They are dug up in early February and moved to new pots.

The easiest way to store Achimenes rhizomes is in the same pot where they grew.

Storing rhizomes of Achimenes outside the ground

It is difficult to leave a large collection in pots for the winter - it is not clear where to put them. Of course, if there is an insulated loggia, balcony or barn where the temperature does not drop below 10 °C, there is no problem. Otherwise, you will have to dig up the rhizomes, wash them, rinse them in a fungicide solution, dry them, and place them in containers or bags with filler. And only after that send him to rest.

For storage you can use:

• clean dry sand;
• peat;
• fine perlite;
• vermiculite

Every month you will have to check the safety of the rhizomes, ventilate them, and, if necessary, remove or treat diseased ones. In February, Achimenes rhizomes are planted in fresh soil.

Achimenes stored in bags must be labeled

Reproduction

Three methods are used:

• cuttings;
• dividing the rhizome;
• seeds.

But the seeds do not transmit parental varietal characteristics.
If you divide the rhizomes, then you should not cut them into too small parts - the sprouts from them come out weak and do not bloom well. Cuttings can be rooted from early summer to mid-summer. To do this, you can use either a light substrate, moistened coarse sand, or just water.

Caring for Achimenes

In order for Achimenes to bloom on time and abundantly, they require suitable conditions and good care.

Lighting

The best location for achimenes will be a western or eastern window. In the south, it is better to shade the leaves from the sun during the daytime.

In the northern part of the house or in the back of the room, the shoots will quickly stretch out from lack of light, and flowering may be completely absent.

Temperature

Its heat-loving nature is reflected even in its name: from Greek “ahimenes” is translated as “afraid of the cold.” But the flower does not like heat either: the optimal temperature in summer is considered to be 20...22 °C.

At temperatures above 27 °C, the condition of the corollas worsens, they become smaller and change their color.

In winter, rhizomes are stored at a temperature no higher than 15 °C.

Priming

For fast-growing and abundantly flowering achimenes, soil nutrition is important. The soil should have good air permeability and a slightly acidic reaction.

Of the ready-made substrates, the composition for Saintpaulia has suitable characteristics, which can be supplemented with pieces of coal, moss and brick chips.

When preparing the soil yourself, you need to mix sand, peat and humus in equal volumes and add the same amount of leaf soil.

Before planting rhizomes, the soil is heated in the oven or frozen in the freezer to destroy pathogenic microorganisms and fungi.

Achimenes pot

The main part of the roots of Achimenes is located superficially, so the pot for the flower is chosen to be wide and shallow. For hanging varieties, any flower pot that is hung against the wall or placed on a high shelf is suitable.

The material of the pot can be anything, the main thing is that there are wide drainage holes at the bottom to quickly drain excess water.

Watering

Achimenes should be watered regularly, especially in the summer when there are an abundance of flowers. At least once every 3 days, moisten the soil with well-settled water slightly warmer than room temperature. Watering is carried out early in the morning or after sunset.

It is important to ensure that water does not get on the delicate leaves. If this happens, then immediately blot the drops with a paper napkin.

Feeding

Achimenes need constant feeding to survive. From the moment the rhizome germinates, liquid fertilizers for Gesneriaceae or any universal remedy for indoor plants are applied at least 3 times a month.

Until mid-spring, you can add fertilizers with a predominance of nitrogen, which will accelerate the growth of green mass. By summer, you need a mineral complex with potassium and phosphorus. Ready-made fertilizers for flowering plants are usually sold with this composition.

During flowering, the amount of fertilizing increases to weekly.

Advice! Experienced gardeners recommend adding fertilizer in a minimal dose during each watering, which results in even more luxuriant flowering.

Transfer

In order for the flower to have enough nutrition for the new season, it is recommended to transplant the rhizomes into a new substrate after wintering:

1. In February, the rhizomes are removed from the soil and cleaned of damaged parts.
2. You can use the same pot, cleaned and rinsed well with boiling water, or take a new one. Cover the bottom with drainage.
3. Cover with soil almost to the top, leaving 5 cm free to the top edge of the container.
4. Water and place the rhizomes horizontally, using slight pressure to deepen them by half a centimeter.
5. Pour another 1–1.5 cm of soil on top and spray with a spray bottle.

The pot is placed in light at a temperature of 25 °C. Sprouts begin to appear after 2 weeks.