From my perspective as a plant, I am a sun-worshipping, heat-loving perennial native to the coastal, sunny, and dry slopes of South America. My fundamental need is intense, direct sunlight for a minimum of six hours daily. This is the single greatest challenge when living indoors. The light filtering through a window is significantly less intense than full, outdoor sun. Without adequate light, I simply cannot perform sufficient photosynthesis to produce the energy required for vigorous growth and, most importantly, my vibrant floral displays. My colorful "flowers" are actually modified leaves called bracts; the true flower is the small, white center. To produce these bracts in the brilliant shades of magenta, purple, red, or orange, I need an immense amount of solar energy.
To truly thrive inside your home and not merely survive, I require very specific conditions that mimic my natural environment. First and foremost is light placement. A south-facing window is my ideal spot. An east or west window might be acceptable, but I will likely become leggy as I stretch toward the light source. Northern exposure is wholly insufficient. During the dark winter months, I may even need supplemental lighting from a full-spectrum grow lamp to sustain myself. Secondly, I prefer warm temperatures. I enjoy the same comfort you do, between 65°F and 75°F (18°C - 24°C). I am highly sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, which can cause me significant stress and leaf drop.
My relationship with water is one of careful balance. In my native habitat, I am accustomed to periods of drought followed by heavy rain. My roots despise sitting in constantly soggy, waterlogged soil, which quickly leads to fatal root rot. Therefore, I require a very well-draining potting mix, often one amended with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. The watering technique is crucial: please water me deeply and thoroughly, allowing water to flow freely from the drainage holes. Then, allow the top few inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again. In the winter, when my growth slows, I need even less water. Overwatering is a far greater threat to my health than underwatering.
It is important to understand my natural growth cycle. In cooler climates with less winter light, I will enter a semi-dormant period. I may drop a significant number of leaves—this is a normal energy-conserving response, not necessarily a sign of distress. Please reduce watering significantly during this time. Pruning is beneficial for me and essential for maintaining a manageable size indoors. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, just before a new growth surge. This encourages bushier growth and more flowering, as I produce bracts on new wood. I do not mind being slightly pot-bound; in fact, it can encourage better blooming. Repot me only every 2-3 years into a pot only one size larger, as too much soil can retain excess water around my roots.
