Hardy Gloxinia, Bolivian Sunset

Seemannia sylvatica (Kunth) Hanst.

'Bolivian Sunset'

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Gesneriaceae

Explanation of name: Generic name honors botanist Benjamin Gloxin. Sylvatica means of the forest.

Synonym:  Gloxinia sylvatica (Kunth) Wiehler

Natural range: South America

Recognition:  Opposite-leaved, fuzzy subshrub with sunset-orange tubular flowers.

Note: The large-flowered houseplant often called "Gloxinia" is Sinningia speciosa.

Landscape uses:  Perennial subshrub with very showy red-orange flowers, in protected but brightly lit landscapes, or in containers.  Prefers protection and filtered sun and ample water in well drained soil.

Internet sources:

http://toptropicals.com/cgi-bin/garden_catalog/cat.cgi?uid=Gloxinia_sylvatica

http://www.fshs.org/Proceedings/Password Protected/1997 Vol. 110/362-363 (KROLL).pdf