Chirita

The following is from the Flower Show Manual For Judges And Exhibitors by American Gloxinia And Gesneriad Society.

Large genus from Asia with a number of species in cultivation. Some are annuals. Habit is varied. Some species are small plants like C. micromusa with yellow flowers that may bloom with only one leaf like a Strptocaarpus. The most popular species is C. sinensis and its foliage class. A number of new species have been introduced from China and Viet Nam.

As far as propagation and culture goes my chirita's receive no special care. I maintain my collection of chiritas alongside my violets. I use the same soil, same, fertilizer, and potting procedure (yes they are wicked) as for my violets. I have read that they prefer to have a growing medium that contains a little extra limestone. The extra limestone may come in the addition of eggshells or agricultural limestone (available at most garden centers) at the ratio of 1/2 cup of limestone to one gallon of growing medium.

My Chirita

Chirita "Diane Marie" (Stewart) Lavender Dark green mark with silver veined.

Chirita "Silver Surfer"

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