Aeschynanthus ‘Pink Polka’

Cultivated form and natural range of Aeschynanthus ‘Pink Polka’

‘Pink Polka’ is a named horticultural cultivar of Aeschynanthus. The cultivar itself exists only in cultivation.

Aeschynanthus belongs to the Gesneriaceae and occurs naturally from southern China through tropical Asia.

Keeping Aeschynanthus ‘Pink Polka’ healthy

• Build light gradually: A bright filtered position supports flowering. If the plant has been growing farther from a window, move it closer in stages so the leaves can adjust.
• Temperature and humidity: ‘Pink Polka’ grows comfortably at 18–26 °C. Keep the surrounding air near 50–60% humidity and move it warmer during prolonged periods below 15 °C.
• Protect developing buds from sudden changes: Once buds are visible, keep the plant in the same general position and avoid sharp swings between very dry and very wet soil.
• Water before the whole root ball dries: During active growth, water after the upper portion of the mix has dried and let all excess escape. Check the moisture again before the next watering and base the timing on the condition of the mix.
• Give the roots an airy mix: Bark with coarse mineral or fibre components keeps the mix loose after watering so it does not stay dense and waterlogged.
• Feed while shoots are extending: Use a dilute complete fertiliser during active growth, then reduce feeding and watering frequency when growth slows.
• Support: Let the flexible stems arch and trail from a hanging container or shelf.
• Repotting: Repot into a slightly larger pot or hanging basket when roots fill the container. If the airy mix has started to break down, replace it with fresh airy mix in a container sized to the roots.
• Propagation: Root a vigorous stem section with several nodes, keeping the cutting warm through establishment.

When ‘Pink Polka’ Stops Looking or Flowering as Expected

• Healthy shoots keep extending without buds: Check how much useful daylight reaches the leaves. If the plant is established and otherwise healthy, gradually move it into a brighter filtered position. Use the bright indirect light guide to check whether the new spot is genuinely brighter.
• Formed buds shrivel or drop: Look for a recent dry spell, sudden saturation or a move to a different position. Return to a steady watering rhythm and leave the plant settled while the next buds develop; use the watering guide if the root ball is difficult to judge.
• Leaves turn yellow and feel unusually soft: Check the mix before assuming the plant is thirsty. If it is still wet, let the upper root zone dry and make sure the pot is not standing in water. Persistent yellowing calls for a root inspection and replacement of compacted or decayed substrate.

Aeschynanthus ‘Pink Polka’ is non-toxic to people and pets

• This plant is non-toxic to people, cats and dogs.
• Chewing a large amount can still cause an upset stomach.
• If a large amount is eaten and symptoms continue, contact a veterinarian or medical professional.

About the name Aeschynanthus

Aeschynanthus combines the Greek aischyne, meaning shame or embarrassment, with anthos, flower.

William Jack established the genus Aeschynanthus in 1823 in Transactions of the Linnean Society of London, volume 14, page 42.