Cochliostema odoratissimum — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Cochliostema odoratissimum

Cochliostema Odoratissimum

Updated · 78 observations
ON THIS PLANT
A note from PlantMom

Principe azul shows strong resistance to disease and is typically not susceptible to infections. However, it can be prone to leaf spots if light and ventilation are poor or if it is overwatered. The plant's care level is considered easy, as it only requires regular watering. It does not need much care otherwise. Principe azul is suitable for people who don't have the time and energy to devote to regular care.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Cochliostema Odoratissimum.

Light

Principe azul occurs naturally in habitats like forest understories or rocky sites, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can acclimate to full sun or full shade, showing its hardy and adaptable character.

Temperature

Principe azul comes from tropical areas, where the weather is normally warm and humid. Consequently, it is well suited to high temperatures and moisture. It does not tolerate sudden temperature shifts and prefers a consistent thermal environment, so avoiding indoor temperature swings is important. It generally cannot handle cold and needs warmer conditions to develop. If the ambient temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Fertilizer

Principe azul requires the most fertilizer during its active growth phase, primarily in spring, summer, and early fall. Fertilizing is needed to supply essential nutrients that the soil may lack, supporting healthy root and stem growth and attractive foliage, which is an important characteristic of this plant.

Pruning

"Principe Azul showcases striking blue flowers and lush foliage. For optimal growth, perform selective pruning in early spring to encourage new growth and improve air circulation. Be sure to use clean, sharp tools to maintain the plant's health and to ensure a neat appearance in your garden space."

Pot & Repot

When repotting Principe azul, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger that provides ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Cochliostema
Family
Commelinaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-12
Mature Height
61 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
49 cm to 76 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Lavender
Flower Size
3.05 cm to 5.08 cm
Bloom Time
All year round
Planting Time
Summer
Harvest Time
All year round
Native Area
Colombia, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Viola Orchid
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

What is Principe Azul?

Principe Azul refers to the plant known botanically as Cochliostema odoratissimum. This unique plant is recognized for its distinctive characteristics and its botanic name, which highlights its specific categorization within the plant kingdom.

PLATES
Cochliostema odoratissimum leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Cochliostema odoratissimum leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Cochliostema odoratissimum flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Cochliostema odoratissimum flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Cochliostema odoratissimum bark
PLATE 05 · bark
Cochliostema odoratissimum habit
PLATE 06 · habit