Sinningia tubiflora

Sinningia tubiflora is a tuberous perennial in the Gesneriaceae family. Its native range runs from Paraguay to northern Argentina and Uruguay. It grows in a tropical climate with a dry season. Gardeners may know it as white gloxinia or trumpet-flowered sinningia. An older scientific name is Achimenes tubiflora. It loses its leaves and rests during winter.

The plant forms a low, spreading mound of hairy, silver-green leaves. The foliage reaches about 1 foot (0.3 m) high. Red flower stems rise above this mound in summer. These stems do not branch and reach about 2 feet (0.6 m). The RHS gives a broader mature height range of 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 m). Its listed spread is 0.3–1.6 feet (0.1–0.5 m). Plants take two to five years to reach full size. The low leaves and taller stems give it two clear layers.

The flowers are white, with pink shading near their bases. They have a scent and reach about 0.23 feet (0.07 m) long. Their pale colour stands above the silver-green leaves and red stems. Summer is the main season for this flower display. The flowers and compact foliage suit pots on a patio. The RHS also lists this species for rock gardens. Its small spread makes containers a useful way to grow it.

Grow it in well-drained soil or potting compost. Sandy or loamy soil suits it, with an acid or neutral pH. Choose a sheltered spot in full sun or partial shade. Water well during growth, and feed at regular intervals. Winter care differs from care during the growing season. The tubers need a cool, dry rest during winter. Give the plant bright light after this rest to help flowering. Protect the tubers from frost. The RHS rates its UK hardiness as H3. This rating applies to coastal and other mild parts of Britain.

Routine care does not include pruning. Raise new plants from seed, or divide the tubers. The RHS reports few usual problems with pests or disease. Even so, its need for drainage and frost protection shapes garden use. A container allows growers to provide the right soil and winter shelter.