Habitat and Location:
 
Sarmienta scandens, a unique and delicate epiphytic species, is native to the temperate rainforests of southern and central Chile. This plant thrives in the misty, cool forests, where it grows on the branches and trunks of trees, benefiting from the constant moisture and filtered light provided by the dense forest canopy. It is typically found at low to mid-elevations, clinging to the moist surfaces of moss-covered trees and rocks.
 
Description:
Sarmienta scandens is distinguished by its trailing, vine-like stems and delicate, tubular flowers. Plants are never much more than 10 cm tall, although the creeping stems measure up to 50 cm. The stems bear small, ovate leaves that are deep green and slightly fleshy. Its most striking feature is the bright red, bell-shaped flowers, which bloom profusely along the stems and are reminiscent of tiny lanterns. These flowers often attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, adding an extra element of liveliness to its natural habitat.
 
This species is a prized addition to any rare plant collection, sought after for its unique form and vibrant flowers. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets, mounted displays, or as an epiphytic addition to terrariums and vivariums.
 
Care Instructions:
For optimal growth, Sarmienta scandens should be placed in moderate shade. It can tolerate total shade but will bloom more prolifically with adequate light. The plant prefers being placed in a pot in a well-draining, moisture-retentive substrate, such as a mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite, or it can be mounted on cork bark or wood with live moss underneath. Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, as this species requires high humidity to thrive.
 
Maintain a cool to intermediate temperature range, with daytime temperatures between 15-22 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures around 06-15 degrees Celsius. Sarmienta scandens prefers high humidity, ideally above 70%, and benefits from regular misting or the use of a humidifier, mounted plants certainly need misting every day. It is well-suited for a terrarium or greenhouse environment, where humidity can be controlled. Fertilize sparingly with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, avoiding direct contact with the leaves to prevent damage.
 
Specifications:
Plant Size: Young plants on mounts with stems 15-35 cm
Family: Gesneriaceae
Plant Passport: A Sarmienta scandens B 140084 c 13362 d GB