Alsobia dianthiflora aka Lace Flower

Alsobia dianthiflora is a tropical plant in the Gesneriaceae family. Gardeners know it as lace flower or laceflower vine. Its older name is Episcia dianthiflora. Its native range runs from Guerrero, Mexico, to northwestern Colombia. It grows in wet tropical regions and has an epiphytic habit. It is a tender, evergreen perennial with a low, trailing form.

Plants stand around 1 foot (0.3 m) tall. The listed garden height range reaches 1.6 feet (0.5 m). Their spread ranges from 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 m). They reach mature size in two to five years. Long runners grow from the joints between leaves and stems. These runners grow fast and carry small plants at their tips. The young plants root with ease and form dense mats. Each mat can include many plants from one parent.

The small, fleshy leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems. Each leaf is simple, green, and covered with soft hairs. Dark red veins and scalloped edges add detail to the foliage. Leaves measure less than 0.08 feet (0.025 m) long. They form a green mat around the flower stalks. Single white flowers grow where leaves meet the stems. Their funnel-shaped blooms have deeply cut fringes around the petal edges. Some flowers have purple marks inside. The flower listing gives widths below 0.08 feet (0.025 m).

Grow this plant with warmth and some humidity indoors. RHS advises bright, filtered light or a lightly shaded spot. NC State also reports good growth under artificial light. Its light listing includes full sun, unlike the RHS indoor guidance. Use soil that holds some moisture but drains well. An African violet potting mix suits these needs. Keep the soil moist without letting the pot stand in water. RHS lists sandy or loamy soils across acidic, neutral, and alkaline pH. Its H1B rating allows outdoor summer growth, with winter protection under glass.

Trailing stems suit hanging baskets, pots, and greenhouse displays. Pinching stem tips helps the plant form bushier growth. Propagate it by division, softwood cuttings, or rooting attached runners. NC State reports few major pest or disease problems. RHS flags mealybugs, thrips, and grey mould as possible troubles. ASPCA lists the plant as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Its chocolate soldier entry also lists it as non-toxic to horses. These safety listings do not establish that people can eat it.