Ceratostema auriculatum

A dramatic cloud forest Ericaceae from Andean slopes, Ceratostema auriculatum produces large, solitary, pendant flowers in deep burgundy-purple with elegantly recurved petals and conspicuous golden stamens — one of the most striking and richly colored species in the genus.

• Light: Bright indirect light; replicates the filtered canopy conditions of its Andean cloud forest habitat. Avoid direct sun, which can damage the foliage.
• Temperature: Cool- to intermediate-growing. Ideal range: 50–68°F (10–20°C). Cool nights promote flowering and overall vigor.
• Humidity: 75–90%. High humidity is essential; best maintained in a cool greenhouse, terrarium, or climate-controlled humid environment.
• Watering: Keep substrate evenly moist with excellent drainage. Sensitive to both drought and waterlogging; water consistently and reduce slightly in cooler periods.

Additional Notes:

Flowers are large, solitary, and deeply pendant, with rich burgundy-purple tubular petals that recurve dramatically at the tips, revealing prominent golden stamens. Leaves are broad, ovate, leathery, and heavily veined — significantly larger than other species in the genus. The name auriculatum refers to the distinctive ear-like (auriculate) leaf base characteristic of the species. A prized collector's specimen for advanced Ericaceae enthusiasts.