Episcia 'Pink Brocade' Play pronunciation

Episcia 'Pink Brocade' is a herbaceous perennial cultivar and a member of the gloxinia family (Gesneriaceae). It is a slow-growing, tropical houseplant with velvety, dark green leaves variegated with pink and creamy white. It grows 6 to 8 inches tall and has a trailing and cascading habit with stoloniferous stems. Its flowers are trumpet-shaped and bright orange-red.  It is also known as the flame violet and flame African violet. The genus is native to the tropical forests of Southern Mexico and South America. The genus name Episcia is derived from the Greek word episkios, meaning shaded. 

Prefers bright, indirect light and needs moist, well-drained, fertile soil, warm temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and high humidity between 60 to 80%. Avoid drafts and keep the plant consistently moist. It is hardy in zones 11 to 12. Avoid overwatering, as root rot can occur. To maintain high humidity, a humidifier is recommended, or place the plant container on a bed of wet pebbles. Best propagated by stem cuttings. To maintain the plant's shape, pinch back leggy stems.

'Pink Brocade' can be a challenge to grow, but once you find a good spot that keeps it happy, don't move it around. It will grow in terrarium-type conditions and is ideal for a hanging basket.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Insect pests include aphids and mealybugs. Fungal leafspots, stem blights, and root rots occasionally occur. Leaves scorch in full direct sun, and dieback occurs if too much water or too little air circulation. The leaf margins may turn brown due to low humidity and dry conditions. Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can also damage the leaves.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common African violet diseases and insect pests.