Habitat and Location:
Drymonia chiribogana is a tropical epiphytic plant native to the cloud forests of Ecuador. It thrives in humid, shaded environments, typically growing on tree trunks and branches where it receives filtered light and abundant moisture. This species is found in high-elevation forests, where cool temperatures and consistent mist create the perfect growing conditions.
Description:
Drymonia chiribogana is known for its striking, glossy green leaves with crystalline markings on their veins. The leaves measure up to 25 cm long on mature plants. The showy tubular white and mauve flowers emerge from white and mauve flushed bracts. The bracts are definitive of this epiphytic genus.
This species' epiphytic nature makes it well-suited for mounting or growing in hanging baskets, allowing its cascading foliage and flowers to stand out. Plants are suited for terrarium only when young and will need pruning as they age eventually outgrowing te terrarium.
Care Instructions:
For optimal growth, Drymonia chiribogana should be placed in shade, indirect light, mimicking the dappled sunlight it receives in its natural habitat. It thrives in a well-draining, epiphytic potting mix of fine orchid bark, charcoal, perlite and moss that retains some moisture but allows air circulation around the roots. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and reduce watering slightly in the cooler months when growth slows.
Maintain daytime temperatures between 18-26 degrees Celsius, and nighttime temperatures should range from 12-18 degrees Celsius. This species prefers high humidity levels, so regular misting (with air movement), hydrofoggers or placing the plant in a humidity tray can help mimic its native cloud forest conditions. Fertilize every watering during the growing season with a diluted balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to support healthy growth and flowering.
Specifications:
Plant Size: Plants 15-20 cm
Family: Gesneriaceae
Plant Passport: A Drymonia chiribogana B 140084 c 13361 d GB
