Hardy Gloxinia 'Innocent'

Sinningia sellovii 'Innocent' is a unique and surprisingly resilient tuberous perennial related to the common indoor Gloxinia. This species is often overlooked but provides an elegant, architectural look in UK gardens. It produces tall, stiff stems clad in textured, silvery-green leaves, topped by nodding, tubular flowers in a soft, dusky rose-pink. The plant can reach 60-80cm in height. Unlike many other Sinningias, this species is noted for its relative hardiness (H3/H4) when planted in a very well-drained, sheltered position, such as at the base of a south-facing wall. However, in most of the UK, it is safer to grow it in a pot that can be moved to a frost-free greenhouse for the winter months. The large, woody tuber should be planted with the top just above the soil surface. It enjoys the warmth of the summer sun and requires minimal watering once established, making it a good choice for a Mediterranean-style planting scheme.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Gritty, very well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep.