Episcia cupreata ‘Shimmer’ is a beautiful tropical houseplant grown for its richly coloured, velvety foliage with a distinctive metallic shimmer. Its creeping and trailing growth habit makes it particularly attractive in a hanging pot, on a shelf or as part of a humid terrarium display. Given the right conditions, it can also produce small, brightly coloured flowers.
Scientific Name
Episcia cupreata ‘Shimmer’
Common Name(s)
Shimmer Flame Violet, Flame Violet, Carpet Plant
Origin
The species Episcia cupreata is native to tropical regions of Central and South America, where it grows in warm, humid forest environments.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate foliage and fade its colouring. Good indirect light will help maintain the plant’s distinctive metallic appearance and encourage flowering.
Water
Keep the soil lightly and consistently moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging and try to keep water off the velvety leaves, as consistently wet foliage can encourage marking or fungal problems.
Humidity
Prefers high humidity and is particularly well suited to terrariums and plant cabinets. Aim for around 60% humidity or higher where possible, while maintaining good airflow.
Soil
Use a light, well-draining mix that retains some moisture. An African violet compost or houseplant mix with added perlite works well.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–27°C. Protect from cold draughts and avoid temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
Yes, Episcia cupreata is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Sprouts Top Tips
Keep ‘Shimmer’ somewhere warm with plenty of humidity and bright, indirect light to bring out the best colour in its foliage. Pinching back long stems can encourage a fuller, bushier plant.
Extras
Episcias naturally produce stolons, or runners, which spread out from the main plant and develop small plantlets. This gives ‘Shimmer’ its attractive cascading habit and also makes established plants relatively easy to propagate.
Did You Know?
Episcia cupreata belongs to the Gesneriad family, making it a relative of African Violets. The species name cupreata refers to its copper-coloured foliage, while cultivars such as ‘Shimmer’ have been selected for particularly striking leaf patterns and metallic tones.
