Achimenes patens is native to Central America and parts of southern Mexico, particularly in the states of Chiapas and Oaxaca. It typically grows in subtropical to tropical montane forests at elevations ranging from 1000 to 2200 metres. This species favours semi-shaded, moist environments, often establishing itself in leaf litter, on rocky banks, or at the edges of cloud forests where it benefits from seasonal rainfall and high ambient humidity. It is a tuberous perennial, adapted to environments with a distinct dry and wet season.
Description:
Achimenes patens is a creeping to trailing herbaceous perennial with slender stems that may reach 30–50 cm in length. The stems are covered with soft, fine hairs and bear opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves that are finely serrated along the margins. Leaves typically measure 3–6 cm long and 1.5–3 cm wide, with a soft, velvety texture and a green to reddish hue. Flowers are produced singly or in pairs from the leaf axils. Each flower is tubular and funnel-shaped, about 3–4 cm long and 2.5–3 cm wide at the mouth, with a five-lobed limb. The corolla is typically bluish-purple to violet, sometimes pinkish, with a paler throat marked by faint lines or spots. It is most similar to Achimenes grandiflora, but is distinguished by its smaller, less showy flowers and more compact growth habit.
 
Cultivation:
Achimenes patens requires bright, indirect light and a warm environment. Ideal daytime temperatures range between 20°C to 26°C, with nighttime temperatures between 14°C to 18°C. Maintain high humidity (60–80%) and water regularly during the growing season, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not soggy. Reduce watering in late autumn as the plant enters dormancy. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.8–6.8) and thrives in a well-drained, peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for aeration. Fertilise with a diluted balanced fertiliser every two weeks during active growth. Tubers can be stored dry and cool (around 10°C) during dormancy and replanted in spring.
 
Specifications:
Plant Size:10 cm pots, some smaller or larger, plants circa
Plant Family: Gesneriaceae
Plant Passport: Achimenes patens B 140084 C 12548 D GB