Terri Gerber

Originally native to India, Tibet and China, hardy gloxinia (Incarvillea delavayi) is winning approval in East Texas for its showy flowers and relative hardiness.

Although actually related to trumpet vines, not gloxinias, hardy gloxinia produces attractive, low-growing clumps of glossy, deeply divided fern-like foliage from which arise upright 12- to 24-inch-tall stems showcasing clusters of exotic magenta to pink trumpet-shaped blooms with lemon colored throats. The Alba and Snowtop varieties have pure white flowers. An old world cottage garden favorite, the hardy gloxinia or Chinese trumpet flower, blooms from mid-spring until mid-summer.

Because of its hardiness, hardy gloxinia can be used as an accent in a perennial border or in a rock garden. Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil that receives full morning sun, it prefers deep, moist, sandy loam soils that receive some protection and partial shade in the heat of the afternoon. It should be watered regularly and consistently while in bloom, but it does not like wet feet in the winter. Therefore, it’s imperative to give it adequate drainage and water it sparingly during that season.

Plant hardy gloxinia 3 to 4 inches deep and approximately 10 inches apart. Water lightly until leaves appear, then provide about 1 inch of irrigation per week. The flowers emit a slight fragrance and are attractive to butterflies, birds and bees. Deadhead or remove faded flowers to encourage a prolonged blooming season. Fertilize monthly while blooming with a balanced fertilizer.

Hardy gloxinia is a self-seeding perennial requiring little maintenance and is relatively drought tolerant. This is a perfect addition to any East Texas landscape.

It will be available at the Smith County Master Gardener From Bulbs to Blooms Conference and Sale, Oct. 13 at Harvey Convention Center. For more information, visit the Smith County Master Gardener Facebook page or https://txmg.org/smith/coming-events.