Geogenanthus Ciliatus P12

Few houseplants bring as much drama to a shelf as Geogenanthus ciliatus. Its broad, rounded leaves are a glossy near-black on top with a velvety deep purple underside, and they catch the light beautifully. A relative of tradescantia, it grows naturally on the rainforest floor of the upper Amazon, which is why it forms such a neat, low mound rather than climbing or trailing. It is still uncommon in the UK and makes a real statement on a coffee table, desk or in a large terrarium.

Give your Geo plant bright, indirect light. It will cope with some shade, but direct sun can scorch the dark foliage. Keep the compost evenly moist and never let it dry out completely, but avoid waterlogging. Good humidity helps, so a bathroom or a grouping with other houseplants suits it well. Keep it above 10°C and away from cold draughts and radiators. Feed monthly at half strength in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertiliser. It is generally considered non-toxic to people and pets, which makes it a good choice for homes with cats and dogs. Mature height and spread are around 15–30cm, with individual leaves eventually reaching up to 20cm long.

Each plant is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.