Geogenanthus Ciliatus: The Exotic & Charming Eyelash Begonia Houseplant

An Introduction to Geogenanthus Ciliatus

Geogenanthus ciliatus, commonly known as the eyelash begonia, is a unique and exotic houseplant that is slowly gaining popularity among houseplant enthusiasts and collectors. This begonia species is native to the rainforests of Ecuador and Colombia and is characterized by its lush green foliage and striking white undersides. The leaves are oval-shaped and have delicate eyelash-like hairs, giving this plant its common name. While not yet common, G. ciliatus is becoming more frequently available at specialty nurseries and can make for a great addition to any houseplant collection.

The Appearance and Growth of Geogenanthus Ciliatus

One of the most distinctive features of G. ciliatus is its foliage. The leaves are a solid deep green on the top side with stark white undersides. The undersides are also covered in thin hairs that resemble delicate eyelashes. This gives the plant an exotic look, unlike more common houseplant varieties. The leaves emerge singly from slender red stems and grow in an alternating pattern along the woody vines.

In its natural habitat, G. ciliatus grows as an epiphyte, using its aerial roots to attach to the bark of trees and absorb moisture and nutrients. The vines can reach lengths of three to six feet long as they search for suitable hosts in the rainforest environment. For indoor growing, the vines typically reach lengths of one to three feet.

The plant produces small white flowers in the summer months, but it primarily grows for its lush foliage. With the proper care, G. ciliatus grows vigorously and needs routine pruning to keep its size in check.

Caring for Your Geogenanthus Ciliatus

Caring for your G. ciliatus requires paying close attention to several key factors. As a tropical plant, it needs very high humidity levels. Use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other tropicals to maintain the humidity it prefers. Sitting in still air will quickly lead to unhappy, dried out foliage.

Bright, indirect light is also essential. Some gentle morning or late afternoon sun from an east or west-facing window is tolerable, but direct hot sun will scorch the fragile leaves. Fertilize regularly in the growing season with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. And take care not to overwater, as soggy soil will cause root rot.

One of the tricky aspects of care is managing the climbing growth. Give the plant a trellis or moss pole early on to encourage vertical rather than horizontal growth. Routine pruning keeps the plant full but prevents leggy, unruly vines.

Propagating Geogenanthus Ciliatus

Propagating new G. ciliatus plants is a simple process. Take stem cuttings with at least two leaf nodes, dip in rooting hormone, and place in moist propagation medium under a plastic dome. Keep the humidity very high. In about four to six weeks, the cuttings will have rooted and can be repotted. Mature plants can also be divided, but take care to preserve a good root system on each division.

Common Issues With Geogenanthus Ciliatus

With the proper care, G. ciliatus is not particularly prone to insect infestations or disease. However, there are some potential problems to watch for:

• Dry, crispy foliage - This is a sign of low humidity. Increase humidity immediately.
• Leaf drop - Can indicate too much or too little water. Check that you are not over or under-watering.
• Leggy growth - Give the plant a trellis and prune regularly to encourage full, compact growth.
• Root rot - Usually caused by overwatering. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
• Pests - Spider mites are occasional pests. Insecticidal soap and neem oil help control outbreaks.

Purchasing Your Geogenanthus Ciliatus

While not always easy to find, you can purchase G. ciliatus plants from specialty nurseries or request a special order from your local greenhouse. Purchase plants that look lush and healthy with no signs of pests, disease, or damage.

Expect to pay $25 to $40 for a young plant or cutting. Mature plants with long, full vines command prices closer to $70 to $100. Rare variegated varieties also sometimes become available and are pricier due to high demand.

When shopping for your plant, look for:

• Deep green leaves with prominent white undersides
• A few vines starting to trail rather than single stems
• No insect damage, spots, or curled foliage
• Well-established root system if potted

Avoid plants that seem weak, leggy, or have damage. Also beware of plants that seem rootbound or potted in soil that is too wet.

Caring For Your New Plant

When you bring your new G. ciliatus home, allow it to acclimate for a week or two before repotting. Keep it in its nursery pot in a spot with bright indirect light and high humidity.

After acclimation, transplant into a pot one size larger using a rich, well-draining potting mix amended with orchid bark. Give the plant a moss pole or trellis to climb. Continue providing the key elements of proper care it needs - humidity, light, fertilizer, and pruning.

With the right care, your G. ciliatus will reward you with exotic foliage and cascading vines that provide a jolt of the tropics to your indoor garden!

The Charm and Challenges of Growing Geogenanthus Ciliatus

For experienced houseplant collectors seeking unique specimens, few plants can compare to lovely Geogenanthus ciliatus. This begonia species offers lush green and white foliage, trailing vines, and tropical appeal. However, it does come with some care challenges.

G. ciliatus hails from steamy conditions in South American rainforests, so replicating its native environment in your home is critical. It desperately needs the highest humidity levels you can provide. Group with other tropicals, use pebble trays, and invest in a humidifier to keep its foliage happy.

It also prefers bright, indirect light indoors. Some gentle morning sun is tolerated, but harsh direct light will damage leaves. Give it a spot in an east or west window filtered by sheer curtains.

Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil is dry, taking care not to oversaturate the soil. Dry air and underwatering cause foliage to crisp and brown. But overwatering can lead to root rot issues.

Fertilize regularly in the growing season and prune back long vines to encourage bushy, compact growth. Repot when rootbound into orchid mix amended potting soil.

With attention to its preferences, G. ciliatus offers a uniquely exotic lookfew other houseplants can match. Just be prepared to provide a little rainforest pampering to keep it looking its best!

FAQs

How much light does Geogenanthus ciliatus need?

G. ciliatus does best in bright, indirect light. Some gentle morning or late day sun is tolerated. Keep it away from hot, direct midday sun which can scorch its delicate leaves.

What's the best way to increase humidity for my G. ciliatus?

Use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other tropical plants. Misting the leaves also helps increase moisture in the air.

When should I fertilize my Geogenanthus ciliatus?

Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Discontinue fertilizing in the fall and winter months.

How often should I water my G. ciliatus?

Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Take care not to oversaturate the soil as begonias are prone to root rot.

What are signs my G. ciliatus needs to be repotted?

Indicators your plant is becoming rootbound include slowed growth, wilting between waterings, and vines growing up over the pot edges. Repot in early spring before growth speeds up.