Cupid's Bower Mixed - Tuber

Cupid's Bower grows best in humus-rich, fertile soil. Standard potting compost is ideal. Make sure that the pot has holes in the base to provide adequate drainage. Cover the bottom with a layer of potsherds or hydrograins. Fill nearly the entire pot with potting compost and place the Cupid Bower's rootlets into the pot. Cover with a one centimetre layer of compost and press firmly. Water immediately after planting. This plant grows in a sheltered area with complete sunshine or partial shade. Protect these plants from bright sunlight and draughts.

The flexible stems of Cupid's Bower make this rich flowering plant ideal for planting in hanging baskets and window-boxes. The flower stems intertwine between other plants. This hanging plant is ideal for combining with Begonias and Hanging Lobelias.

Cupid's Bower is a jewel from the subtropical forests of Mexico. The plant grows beautifully on your patio or decking and even in your living room or a greenhouse environment. The plant grows easily and has a very long flowering season - from late spring through to autumn! The thick leaves are very decorative. 'Widow's tears' is a common nickname for Cupid's Bower.

Feed the Cupid's Bower with plant food on a regular basis. Use one quarter of the amount stated on the package. Rainwater is highly preferable to tap water as it is much softer which is appreciated by the Achnines. Spray the whole plant regularly to ensure a higher humidity. In autumn, Cupid's Bower does not need much water after the flowering period.

To prepare Cupid's Bower for winter dormancy, in autumn after the flowering period allow the plant to die down and the tuberous roots to dry off. Shake the soil off the roots. Put them in a box of compost and sharp sand and store them in a room at approximately 10° C. From late January onwards, you can repot the Cupid's Bower again in fresh potting compost. Keep the pot in a warm room and water it regularly. From mid-May onwards, you can place your Cupid's Bower back outside and look forward to its colourful blooms from June onwards.