Genus of about 170 species of evergreen shrubs and subshrubs from moist woodland in tropical North, Central, and South America. All year round Aphelandra's large leaves with silvery veins provide an attractive feature, and then for about 6 weeks in autumn it is crowned by a golden cone. Unfortunatelly it is not easy to keep an Aphelandra under ordinary room for more than a few month. The fate of nearly all of them is to become leggy and leafless. The way to avoid this is to feed regularly, never allow the compost to dry out, mist frequently and keep warm in winter. Remove dead blooms after flowering.
Average warmth in summer - minimum 55F in winter.Brightly lit spot. Keep well away from direct sunlight. Grow in soil-based potting mix.
Keep compost moist at all times but never waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. Use soft, tepid water. Misting is necessary.
Take stem cuttings in spring. Use a rooting hormone and provide bottom heat (70 F or 21 C).
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