Episcia reptans

Episcia reptans, or flame violet, comes from tropical South America. It belongs to Gesneriaceae, the African violet family. Its native climate is wet and tropical. This evergreen perennial grows slowly and stays close to the ground. Garden plants reach about 0.33–0.5 feet [0.10–0.15 metres] tall. They spread about 0.67–1 foot [0.20–0.30 metres] wide. Leaves form rosettes, which send out creeping stolons. These stems give the plant its spreading form.

Fine hairs cover the stems and give leaves a velvet feel. The simple leaves grow in opposite pairs. Their oval blades mix green with grey or silver. Leaf edges have small teeth or rounded scallops. Tips may be pointed or blunt. The bases range from rounded to slightly heart-shaped. Leaves measure 0.17–0.5 feet [0.05–0.15 metres] long. Their width reaches 0.08–0.33 feet [0.025–0.10 metres]. The lasting foliage gives the plant interest between blooms.

Flowers appear in spring, summer and fall. Each flower grows alone rather than in a cluster. The red to burgundy blooms have a trumpet shape. A spur projects from the base of each flower. A ring of hairs lines the flower's throat. Blooms reach about 0.125 feet [0.038 metres] across. The fruit is a small, round, brown to copper capsule. Each capsule measures about 0.003 feet [0.001 metres] across.

Grow this plant in warmth with high air humidity. Give it indirect light or dappled shade. Full, direct sun can scorch the leaves. It needs fertile, moist soil that drains well. Soil rich in organic matter suits it. Keep water off the leaves, and reduce watering in winter. NCSU lists it for USDA zones 10a through 11b. Containers, hanging baskets and terrariums suit its small size. It also serves as a greenhouse plant or ground cover.

Care can be hard when winter brings short days and dry air. Low humidity and dry conditions can brown the leaf edges. Too much water or poor airflow can cause dieback. Root rot, fungal leaf spots and stem blights may occur. Aphids and mealybugs can also attack the plant. Stem cuttings offer a way to replace weak plants after winter. The ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to cats and dogs. That safety listing does not establish any edible use.