Iochroma Plant Care – How To Grow Iochroma Plants

Often known as mini angel trumpet or violet tubeflower, Iochroma is a dazzling plant that produces clusters of intensely purple, tube-shaped blooms throughout summer and early autumn. This fast growing plant is actually a member of the tomato family and is a distant cousin of brugmansia, another absolute stunner. If you’re looking for a sure-fire hummingbird magnet, you can’t go wrong with Iochroma. Want to learn how to grow Iochroma plants? Read on!

Iochroma Growing Conditions

Iochroma (Iochroma spp.) is suitable for growing in the warm climates of USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 10. However, most varieties can be grown successfully in climates as far north as zone 7, but only if the roots are well insulated with a layer of mulch. If temperatures drop below 35 F. (2 C.), the plant may die to the ground, but will resprout in spring. Although Iochroma prefers full sunlight, the plant benefits from shade in warmer climates where temperatures regularly top 85 to 90 F. (29-32 C.). Iochroma prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a soil pH of around 5.5.

How to Grow Iochroma Plants

Iochroma propagation is easily achieved by taking cuttings from an established plant. Alternatively, plant seeds in small pots filled with well-drained potting mix. Place the pots in a warm room where they receive filtered sunlight. Watch for the seeds to germinate in about six weeks. Give them a few more weeks to mature, then plant in a permanent location within the garden.

Iochroma Plant Care

Caring for Iochroma plants is just as easy and minimal. Water Iochroma regularly and always water at first sign of wilt, as the plant doesn’t recover well from a severe wilt. However, don’t overwater and never allow the plant to become waterlogged. Be sure container-grown Iochroma is planted in well-drained soil and that the pot has at least one drainage hole. Fertilize Iochroma monthly during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio below 15-15-15. Plants in containers benefit from regular application of a water-soluble fertilizer applied according to label directions. Prune Iochroma after blooming. Otherwise, prune lightly as needed to keep growth in check.