Gloxinia care guide
Sinningia speciosa
Quick answer
Water your gloxinia when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 4 to 6 days.
- WateringEvery 4 to 6 days · summer
Every 10 to 14 days · winter - LightBright, indirect light
- Climate18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
- Pet safetyPet-safe (non-toxic)
Not sure it’s this plant?Get the free Botanicaly app and find out with a photoWhen and how to water
2 cm (0.8 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 4 to 6 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 10 to 14 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Work out your own rhythm with the watering calculator.
Light and placement
Bright, indirect light
Gloxinia thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Feeding
Feed your gloxinia every 21 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
Humidity60–80%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–24 °C (64–75 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 15 °C (59 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
No. Pet-safe.
Gloxinia is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Common questions
How often should I water a gloxinia?
Water your gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 4 to 6 days. In winter, slow down to every 10 to 14 days.
How much light does a gloxinia need?
Gloxinia thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Is gloxinia safe for cats and dogs?
Gloxinia is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Sources
- This guide follows established plant-care guidance and official ASPCA pet-safety references. How we verify our plant data →
- How we check our plant advice
Last reviewed:
