Type: Broadleaf evergreen
Family: Gesneriaceae
Zone: 7 to 10
Height: 1.75 to 2.00 feet
Spread: 1.75 to 2.00 feet
Bloom Time: May to September
Bloom Description: Pale yellow to orange
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy
Culture
Best grown in evenly moist, very well-draining soils in full sun to part shade. Commonly grown as houseplants although some are hardy to Zones 7 or even 6 and make excellent garden subjects. When grown indoors, provide plenty of bright, indirect light and high humidity. Too much direct sun can cause leaf scorch. Allow plants to enter dormancy after flowering. Reduce watering and place in a cool, dark location for 2-3 months. Propagate through cuttings during the growing season, or offsets during dormancy.
'Bananas Foster' is hardy in Zones 7-10.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Sinningia is a genus of around 70-80 species of mostly tuberous (some have fibrous roots), herbaceous perennials native to Central and South America. May be sold under the name gloxinia.
Genus name honors Wilhelm Sinning (1794-1874), head gardener, University of Bonn.
'Bananas Foster' is a hybrid Sinningia selection that features tall spikes of pale yellow to orange, pendulous, tubular blooms. Mature plants will reach up to 2' tall with a similar spread. The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds.
Problems
No major pest or disease problems of note. Poorly drained, overly moist soil will lead to rot.
Uses
Well-draining mixed beds and borders, rock gardens, containers.