Alsobia are from the gesneriad family. They are similar to Episcia in growth habit and niche. There was a time that the two were considered of one genus. Now they are considered different enough to separate into their own genus. They are two species and a number of hybrids. They have dark green foliage with darker veins. The flower are large white with fringed petals. There are purple spots in various patterns depending on the species or variety.
The biggest difference is the Alsobia seem to tolerate cold better. Episcia can develop cold damage in temperature below 60. I have read that Alsobia can withstanding temperature down to 35 degrees. The stolons or runners are formed in straight lines instead of the branching pattern of Episcias. You should be able to grow this plant next to African violets on the light stand. This plant makes a very attractive in hanging basket. The runners hanging over the edges of the pot.
This plants can be found for sell on ebay. Search for alsobia for sale
Soil The same that you use for your violets. I use my water-wicking mix which 1-1-1 one part peat moss, one part perlite, and one part vermiculite. search for vermiculite
Light. They do well in diffused natural light. They also do well in a light stand with a duration of 10-14 hours a day. This is best achieved with a timer.
Fertilizer. Any water soluble fertilizer will work. I prefer Jack's Classic fertilizer either 20-20-20 or 12-36-14. The second one will promote flower development. Constant feed is one quarter teaspoon per gallon.
Propagation. Just like Episcia cutting the runners off and place them in small pots and enclose in a container under shop lights. You can also use a hair pin to hold a hold into soil of a small pot beside the mother plant. It will form roots. It can be cut off from the parents when it is well established.
'Chiapas' This is a newer variety with a odd shaped flower. The purple spots are very prominent.
'Cygnet' This the one of the better known hybrids with large spotted flowers.
Alsobia dianthiflora The flowers are almost pure white.
Alsobia punctata The name refers to the spots on the flowers.
San Miguel This plants has nice large white flowers with large purple spots.
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