Columnea
Columnea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, comprising a large number of species native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Most Columnea are epiphytic or lithophytic perennials that form hanging or trailing shrubs. They typically have opposite, simple leaves and slender, often branched stems. The flowers are the defining feature: tubular, bilabiate corollas arranged in pendent inflorescences, frequently brightly colored in shades of red, orange, yellow, pink or purple, often with a contrasting throat. Flowering is common under appropriate light and humidity conditions and can occur at different times of the year.
Columnea species are distributed from southern Mexico through Central America and into parts of northern and
Columnea are popular as ornamental houseplants and, in suitable climates, as outdoor ornamentals. They require bright,
Propagation is typically by stem cuttings or air layering. Common pests include mealybugs, aphids, scale, and
Columnea is placed in the Gesneriaceae family, within the subfamily Gesnerioideae. The genus has undergone taxonomic