Petrocosmea kerrii image • Photo: Author Averater• GFDL
Kerr’s Petrocosmea
Petrocosmea kerrii
Petrocosmea kerrii is an evergreen perennial houseplant in the Gesneriaceae family, forming low rosettes with fleshy, velvety-hairy leaves that are rich green with purple hints. Its distinctive white to purple-tinged tubular or bell-shaped flowers bloom in clusters beneath the foliage, contrasting with other Petrocosmea species. Native to Southwest Yunnan (China) to Northern Indo-China, it grows naturally on cliffs and moss-covered rocks. The plant reaches 15-25 cm in width at maturity and features a compact, single-crown growth habit ideal for tabletops.
Leaf Characteristics
Fleshy, velvety-hairy leaves with felted texture; lance-shaped to rounded form; rich green coloration with purple undertones
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Petrocosmea kerrii
Light Requirements
Indirect light from east, west, or north windows; tolerates artificial light (12 hours daily from lamps 12 cm above)
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Regular watering during blooming period, allowing top soil layer to dry slightly between waterings
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
50-77°F (tolerates 41-86°F)
Native Climate
Native to Southwest Yunnan, China to Northern Indo-China
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining mix of 1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand/perlite, and 1 part moist peat/humus (optionally with lime); or equal parts peat, perlite, and vermiculite
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Petrocosmea kerrii plants
Leaf cuttings, seeds, or offsets
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Southwest Yunnan, China to Northern Indo-China
moderate
15-25 cm wide
perennial
Pet friendly
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Autumn and winter
Flower Description
White with purple tinge, five-lobed tubular to bell-shaped flowers in small clusters positioned under foliage
Fun Fact
Flowers grow beneath the foliage - a unique trait among Petrocosmea species
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Petrocosmea kerrii
Yellowing leaves, soggy soil
Brown spots or decay
Varieties
Different varieties of Petrocosmea kerrii
Less common variety
Standard variety
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Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Petrocosmea kerrii
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Flowering Plants Plants Care Guide
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