BellinaThe Long Wait for Episcia ‘Picasso’
I first spotted Episcia ‘Picasso’ in the background of one of my own videos. I hadn’t even noticed it while filming. I was too focused on getting the shot, adjusting angles, and making sure everything looked clean on screen. It wasn’t until I sat down to edit that I saw it. There it was, quietly tucked off to the side. A plant that didn’t beg for attention but held its own with subtle charm.
It wasn’t vibrant like many episcias. No hot pinks, no bright flashes of color. Instead, it carried a quiet presence. Muted tones of dark green and smoky gray layered across the leaves, with just enough contrast to be interesting but not loud. This wasn’t a plant that screamed for admiration. It invited a second glance, then a closer look. It was instantly added to my list, and I waited.
I checked every show and vendor table, season after season. A full year passed. Then finally, at the spring show hosted by the Toronto African Violet and Gesneriad Society, I found it. Their spring show is the bigger event, with well-grown specimen plants on display. The fall is a little more relaxed, focused on vendor offerings ahead of winter. This spring, as I wandered the aisles, I spotted it again. This time in real life. I didn’t hesitate. I picked it up right away.
Once home, I gave it a spot in my living room where it gets morning sun for a couple of hours, followed by soft, filtered light in the afternoon. It sits in a self watering pot. I prefer this setup for episcias. It helps regulate their moisture without overdoing it. I also allow the reservoir to go dry sometimes. This gives the roots a brief rest and helps avoid soggy soil. I use a light fertilizer mix in the reservoir and avoid overfeeding.
I read that this variety can stretch during the winter, so I give it a bit more light than my other episcias. That small adjustment has made a noticeable difference. The growth is healthy and compact, and the foliage continues to look stunning.
After waiting a year and spotting it by chance in my own footage, finding this plant felt more personal. It’s not just another plant in my collection. It’s one I connected with long before I held it in my hands.
Care Summary for Episcia ‘Picasso’
Light: Bright indirect light with 1 to 2 hours of morning sun
Water: Self watering system with occasional dry spells between refills
Soil: Well draining mix high in perlite
Fertilizer: Light feed in reservoir, diluted to avoid root burn
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity
Repotting: Only when needed, in airy soil
Growth Note: Provide extra light in winter to prevent legginess
