How to Grow Scarlet Bells
iNaturalist
Scarlet Bells
Gesneria ventricosa
flowerGesneria ventricosa is a tropical perennial flowering plant in the Gesneriaceae family, native to Puerto Rico. It produces distinctive tubular scarlet-red flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. The plant features velvety, dark green foliage and blooms prolifically in warm, humid conditions.
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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
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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 →Thrives in zones 10b-11; grow indoors in cooler climates
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Seedling/Young Plant
4-6 weeksSmall rosettes with 2-4 true leaves, velvety dark green foliage emerging
Maintain high humidity (60-80%), keep soil evenly moist, provide bright indirect light, avoid direct sun exposure
Vegetative Growth
6-10 weeksPlant develops multiple leaf rosettes, stems thicken, foliage becomes fuller and darker, no flower buds yet
Continue consistent moisture, mist regularly to maintain humidity, fertilize weekly with diluted liquid fertilizer, maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F minimum)
Pre-flowering/Bud Formation
3-4 weeksFlower buds begin forming at leaf axils, plant continues vegetative growth, buds develop reddish tint
Increase phosphorus-rich fertilizer to promote blooming, maintain humidity and warmth, reduce nitrogen fertilizer, ensure adequate light
Flowering
8-16 weeks (can be nearly continuous with proper care)Tubular scarlet-red flowers open sequentially along stems, blooms last 2-3 weeks individually, multiple flower stalks present
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming, maintain consistent watering and humidity, provide 12+ hours of bright light daily, keep temperatures warm
Post-Bloom/Rest
Variable, 4-8 weeks depending on seasonFlowering slows in winter months or with reduced light, plant may go somewhat dormant, foliage remains healthy
Reduce watering slightly but don't allow soil to dry completely, reduce fertilizer frequency, maintain warm conditions, allow light rest period, prepare for spring blooming
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Isolate affected plant, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, wipe leaves with 70% isopropyl alcohol on cotton swab, repeat weekly
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Increase humidity to 70%+ to deter, spray with water or miticide, use neem oil, ensure good air circulation
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Use yellow sticky traps, spray with insecticidal soap, apply neem oil, isolate plant to prevent spread
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Reduce watering frequency slightly, allow soil surface to dry between waterings, use sand layer on soil surface, apply mosquito dunks or neem oil drench
Uses
Hummingbird Garden Plant
OrnamentalGesneria ventricosa's bright red tubular flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other nectar-feeding birds, making it an excellent choice for tropical and subtropical gardens or indoor displays near windows. [source]
Indoor Container Plant
HouseholdIts compact size, spectacular blooms, and preference for indirect light make it ideal for indoor cultivation in terrariums, vivariums, or as a houseplant in humid rooms like bathrooms and kitchens. [source]
Cut Flowers
CraftThe long-lasting scarlet flowers can be cut for small arrangements and floral displays, providing vibrant color for 1-2 weeks in a vase with fresh water. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeBeyond hummingbirds, the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local ecosystems in gardens where the plant is grown outdoors. [source]
Harvest Tips
This ornamental flowering plant is not harvested for food. Deadhead spent flowers by pinching or cutting just below the flower base to encourage continuous blooming. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves at the base of the plant. Seeds can be collected from mature seed pods if desired for propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Gesneria ventricosa is native to Puerto Rico and was historically known as part of the genus Gesneria, which was named after the 16th-century naturalist Conrad Gesner.
- 🌱 The plant's velvety leaves are covered with fine hairs (trichomes) that help reduce water loss in its native tropical humid environment, while also giving the foliage a luxurious appearance.
- 🌱 In its native habitat, Gesneria ventricosa grows as an epiphyte on trees and in rocky crevices, preferring the damp, sheltered conditions of cloud forests, which explains its preference for humidity in cultivation.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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