Ionantha Ionantha

The leaves are silvery green, forming a dense rosette.  When in  bloom, only the inner leaves turn red. The outer ones usually stay  green.  It is a very graceful plant, which forms clusters.  They vary  greatly in size, but as an adult plant it reaches between 8 - 10 cm  high.  There is a Mexican variety which is generally smaller 5 -6 cm  high.  The violet flowers emerge from the centre of the plant on  abbreviated spikes deep within the plant.  It is a durable species.   With its attractiveness and size, they are ideal to locate on a  windowsill where it can receive strong light.   In its natural habitat  it is exposed to the full intensity of the elements. It is suitable for  terrariums. A favourite species.