John: Gesneriads have been a real focus of ours as well. Sinningia leucotricha has been hardy for 5+ years for us as well with a low of 9 degrees F and no mulch. This is just one of many sinningia species that have proven winter hardy in a similar period. Another gesneriad that has been a real surprise is Hemiboea subcapitata, which turned out to be hardy in Zone 6. We are working with two other species now to see their potential. I hope more folks will trial some of the great gesneriads outdoors. Tony Avent Plant Delights Nursery @ Juniper Level Botanic Garden 9241 Sauls Road Raleigh, North Carolina 27603 USA Minimum Winter Temps 0-5 F Maximum Summer Temps 95-105F USDA Hardiness Zone 7b email tony@plantdelights.com website http://www.plantdelights.com/ phone 919 772-4794 fax 919 772-4752 "I consider every plant hardy until I have killed it myself...at least three times" - Avent -----Original Message----- From: pbs-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org [mailto:pbs-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org] On Behalf Of John Grimshaw Sent: Monday, December 28, 2009 11:24 AM To: Pacific Bulb Society Subject: Re: [pbs] terrariums From: "Jim McKenney" < >Winter hardy gesneriads (other than Ramonda and kin) >seem to be just out >of >reach right now, but many are hardier than expected. Sinningia leucotricha >has survived here outside all year for years near a house >wall. Maybe >raising them en masse will provide a few plants with >enhanced hardiness. Although off-topic really, what is it that kills the 'hardy' gesneriads in your area, Jim? John Grimshaw Visit John Grimshaw's Garden Diary http://johngrimshawsgardendiary.blogspot.com/ Dr. John M. Grimshaw Sycamore Cottage Colesbourne Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL53 9NP