Plant Guide: Achimenes

Achimenes is planted in early spring by placing the rhizomes shallowly in a pot filled with light, well-draining potting soil. The rhizomes should be lightly covered with soil and spaced slightly apart to allow room for growth. After planting, the soil is kept evenly moist and the pot is placed in a warm location to encourage sprouting. Once growth begins, the plant should be moved to a bright position with plenty of indirect.

How to plant

Achimenes is planted in early spring by placing the rhizomes shallowly in a pot filled with light, well-draining potting soil. The rhizomes should be lightly covered with soil and spaced slightly apart to allow room for growth. After planting, the soil is kept evenly moist and the pot is placed in a warm location to encourage sprouting. Once growth begins, the plant should be moved to a bright position with plenty of indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight that could damage the leaves.

Flowering period

The flowering period of Achimenes takes place during the summer months, when the plant produces an abundance of trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, red, purple and blue. Individual flowers last only a short time, but new blooms continuously develop, ensuring a long-lasting display. During this period, regular watering is important, keeping the soil consistently moist without allowing it to become waterlogged. A liquid fertiliser rich in potassium can be applied at regular intervals to support healthy flowering.

After flowering

After flowering has finished, the plant gradually dies back and watering should be stopped completely. The dried stems can be removed, allowing the rhizomes to rest in dry soil inside the pot. These rhizomes should be stored in a frost-free place throughout the winter. In the following spring, they can be replanted in fresh potting soil and watered to initiate a new cycle of growth and flowering.