How to Grow Scarlet Bells
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Scarlet Bells
Gesneria schottiana
flowerGesneria schottiana is a tropical flowering plant in the Gesneriaceae family, native to Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands. It produces vibrant scarlet-red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. This semi-woody shrub thrives as a houseplant or in warm, humid outdoor gardens.
When should you plant Scarlet Bells in your zone?
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Example Scarlet Bells timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Scarlet Bells
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Scarlet Bells blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scarlet Bells dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-11; grow indoors or in containers in cooler zones
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Establishment
2-4 weeksNew plants develop root systems and establish foliage; initial stems and leaves emerge
Keep soil consistently moist, maintain high humidity (60%+), protect from direct sun, and provide bright indirect light. Avoid fertilizing until new growth is visible.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant produces multiple stems and compound foliage; bushy growth habit develops with increasing leaf size
Maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F), continue consistent moisture, apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks, pinch stem tips to encourage branching
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksFlower buds begin to form at stem terminals; small red buds appear among upper foliage
Maintain bright light conditions, ensure adequate humidity, continue regular feeding with a blooming fertilizer (higher phosphorus), avoid temperature fluctuations
Flowering
4-8 weeks or longer with proper careTubular scarlet-red flowers open sequentially along flower spikes; blooms attract hummingbirds and pollinators
Maintain consistent watering and humidity, provide bright indirect light, apply diluted blooming fertilizer every 2 weeks, deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming
Rest Period
4-6 weeks, typically in winterFlowering slows, foliage may appear less vigorous, plant enters semi-dormant phase
Reduce watering frequency slightly, lower fertilization to once monthly, maintain temperatures above 60°F, prune leggy stems to rejuvenate plant for next growth cycle
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate affected plant; inspect regularly and remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs
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Increase humidity to 60%+, mist foliage regularly, use neem oil spray, ensure adequate air circulation
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Remove manually with a soft brush or cloth, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, repeat treatments every 7-10 days
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Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings, use sticky traps, apply insecticidal soap if severe
Uses
Hummingbird Attraction
WildlifeThe bright scarlet tubular flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators, making this plant excellent for wildlife gardens. Flowering period provides nectar-rich food sources. [source]
Indoor Ornamental Plant
HouseholdGesneria schottiana is prized as a tropical houseplant for its stunning scarlet-red flowers and decorative foliage. It works well in bright bathroom windows and terrariums due to its humidity preferences. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe flowers are edible and can be used as a delicate garnish for salads and desserts, adding visual appeal and mild flavor. Use pesticide-free plants only. [source]
Traditional Caribbean Medicine
MedicinalIn Caribbean traditional medicine, Gesneria species have been used in herbal preparations, though scientific validation is limited. Consult healthcare providers before medicinal use. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Gesneria schottiana is grown as an ornamental for flowers rather than harvest. Cut flowers last 7-10 days in a vase; cut stems at an angle when 2-3 flowers have opened. Remove spent flowers to encourage extended blooming. Plants can be propagated from stem cuttings (3-4 inches long) taken in spring or summer; root in moist perlite or sphagnum moss under plastic covering.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Gesneria schottiana is native to Puerto Rico and is part of the diverse Gesneriaceae family, which includes over 3,500 species of mostly tropical plants.
- 🌱 The genus Gesneria was named after Conrad Gesner, a 16th-century Swiss naturalist and botanist, honoring his contributions to botany.
- 🌱 This plant thrives in humid conditions similar to its native rainforest habitat and will reward careful growers with nearly continuous flowering throughout warm months when given proper care.
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