The shamrock is an exotic houseplant that likes both high temperatures and high humidity.
The shamflower (Aeschynanthus) is perfect as a traffic light plant. This is not least due to the exotic flowers that appear at the ends of the shoots in summer. The tubular flowers usually appear like fiery red drops. Yellow and orange varieties are also possible. In nature, the birds take care of the pollination of the shamflower. Therefore, the capsule fruits are considered a rarity by indoor gardeners. The exotic species from Asia cannot cope with our climate and should therefore be cultivated as a houseplant all year round.
Origin of the shamflower
The home of the shamflower lies in the dense rainforests of Asia and Oceania. Extensive deposits have been discovered in China, Java, New Guinea and the Philippines. New varieties are constantly being established. Over 180 species are currently known. In Central Europe, the Gesneria family thrives exclusively in indoor culture. Mainly Aeschynanthus radicans and their different cultivated forms are offered.
Shamflower Location
The exotic plant needs a lot of light all year round and a warm location. Direct sun should be avoided. On the other hand, watch out for high humidity. Constant temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees are considered ideal.
» Tip: In winter, the plant can be placed at a maximum of 18 degrees for about four weeks. During this time there is no watering. This stimulates the flowering of the shamflower.
It is very important that the shamflower does not change its location during its flowering period. Even a slight rotation of the plant can already lead to the shedding of flowers and buds.
The right substrate for the shamflower
A loose and well drained substrate is needed. The liquid must always be able to drain off easily. Waterlogging must not occur. Conventional potting soil should be loosened up with clay granules.
» Tip: Cactus soil is very suitable for cultivating the shamflower.
Repot shamflower
No later than two years afterAfter buying the plant, the shamflower should be repotted. It's not just about finding a larger planter, replacing the used substrate is also important.
You can tell if it's time to repot the shamrock when you take a look at the planter. If the roots are already pushing out of the top and bottom of the pot and there is hardly any substrate left, it is high time to repot, which takes place in the following steps:
- Pot plant
- Remove root ball from substrate
- Check root ball
- cut off dead roots
- Replace planter
- Fill the planter with substrate
- Insert shamflower
- Fill substrate
- Watering the shamflower
- Cultivate plant as usual
» Tip: The best time for repotting the shamflower is theMonths of February and March. Even after the flowering period, the planter and substrate can be exchanged.
Watering and fertilizing the shamflower
Tact is required when watering the shamrock. The plant must not stand in water, but at the same time must not dry out. It is always watered with temperate water, and regular spraying also provides the exotic plant with sufficient moisture.
The indoor gardener counteracts the high nutrient requirement of the shamflower during the growth phase with a low dose of flowering plant fertiliser. Fertilizer is applied every 14 days from March to August.
gartentipps.com recommendation:
Cutting shamrock
The shamflower does not necessarily have to be cut back. If shoots that are too long are to be shortened, this can be done in spring. Use a sharp cutting tool to minimize damage to the plant. The shoots should not be completely shortened. At least one third of the original length should be retained.
Propagating shamflower
The propagation of the shamflower is possible via head cuttings. These are cut in early summer. The cutting should be about ten centimeters long and can be placed in potting soil immediately after cutting. In a bright and warm location, there is a good chance that new shoots will appear in the foreseeable future.
Diseases and Pests
Low humidity weakens the plant. Then spider mites or thrips have an easy time. Aphids can also occur. hereincreased showering or collection helps.