Sinningia tubiflora

In English called Hardy Gloxinia , Sinningia tubiflora is a fantastic perennial. This plant forms large underground tubers from which new stems emerge in spring. In early summer, from the tufts of green and fuzzy leaves, stems about 40 cm long emerge that carry pure white tubular flowers, 15 cm long and with an exotic citrus fragrance.

These pearly white flowers have an elegant shape, probably indicating that they are pollinated by some type of butterfly or hummingbird. This species can be grown outdoors year-round in many Italian climates, as the tubers can survive the winter where winters are not very harsh.

I always thank those who introduced me to it years ago.