Propagation
Sow fresh seed during early autumn or in spring and maintain a temperature of 13ş to 18şC (55ş-64şF). The seeds germinate in 6 to 8 weeks and prick out at 12 weeks and flowers will be produced the following year.

Corms may be carried over from year to year though lose vigour and should be planted out at a depth to 50mm (2in).

Re-pot during early autumn and don`t allow the corm to completely dry out during the dormant period.


Botanic information
Leaf: The leathery textured reniform leaves have a cordate base and an obtuse apex. The upper surface has dark green with lighter silvery pattens and the leaves rise from the corm on a slender reddish petiole.

Flower: The solitary nodding rotate flower have a short tube with 5-calyx lobes and the 5-petals are reflexed backwards and often twisted. The margins are sometimes ruffled or edged with contrasting tones and the flower is held erect on a slender pedicle that is up to 140mm (5˝in) tall.

There are many cultivars available and the colours include white, pink, red, mauve and purple. Some of the older cultivars are fragrant and the main flowering period is from autumn to early spring.

Fruit: The small spherical 5-celled capsule contains numerous viable seeds. The corm has a prominent mid rib with attractive variegated patterns in silver.Fruit production reduces the number of flowers produced by the plant.

Culture
Light
Tolerates direct winter light but prefers filtered or indirect good light. If the plant becomes elongated it requires a brighter position.

Watering
Avoid watering foliage in warm well-lit areas, water regularly but the soil must not be soggy. If the soil is allowed to dry out the plant will wilt. Test to see if it needs watering by scratching top dry layer of soil to see if the sub soil is moist.

Watering methods
1. Stand the pot in shallow saucer with tempered water allowing it to be absorbed then drain.

2. Water from above if a third of the corm protrudes out of the soil, water to it not above it. Then allow it to drain.

Temperature
The normal growing and flowering temperature is 10ş to 16ş C. (50ş to 60ş F) Humidity may be helped by placing the pot above a saucer of water (not in the water).
In cooler areas a glass frame and heating is required.
Protect from draughts and wind.

Leaves yellowing may be the result of too much water or not enough water, or to dryer position. It is also occurs during dormancy.
A bud falling off or if rotting occurs indicates the application of too much water.
Complete collapse of the plant indicates too high temperature.
When grown as a potted house plant, take the plant outside at night for cooler temperatures to prolong the flowering period.