Haberlea 'Virginalis'

Haberlea rhodopensis

How to grow Haberlea 'Virginalis'

Haberlea naturally grows on rocky outcrops and thus it works well when given a similar situation in a rock garden or between stones in a wall. It needs, at the least to be free draining. Specimens can also be grown in plunge pots in a greenhouse – though care must be taken to assure that it does not overheat in summer.

Haberleas prefer a little shade and do not like water to sit on their crowns as this may cause them to rot. The species is fairly slow growing and hardy in cool but dry conditions. Wetter areas may consider some sort of shelter during winter – especially areas which have no snowfall to protect plants from heavy frosts.

Keep in mind when planting that Virginalis is thought of as hardy, so this plant will survive close to or on freezing temperatures.

Growing Virginalis from seed

As with other gesneriads, Haberleas should always be surface sown. A fine sowing medium is best – preferably peat based. Germination may take some time and seeds and seedlings are both best kept moist.

Transplanting Virginalis

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Virginalis is a hardy plant.

Harvesting Virginalis