Chocolate Soldier Flower
Episcia cupreata 'Chocolate Soldier'
Chocolate soldier produces vibrant red-orange tubular flowers above stunning velvety leaves with chocolate-brown edges and silver veining. Native to tropical Americas, these exotic blooms symbolize warmth, richness, and the nurturing comfort of home.
Gesneriaceae (African Violet family)
Spring through fall (March-November), year-round in ideal conditions
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: streptocarpuss and angel wing begonias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Chocolate soldier represents the beauty and sophistication that can thrive in carefully nurtured home environments. The cultivar name refers to its distinctive chocolate-brown leaf edges that contrast dramatically with silver veining, creating a shimmering, iridescent effect. As a member of the Gesneriad family alongside African violets, it shares their reputation for reliable indoor flowering. The plant symbolizes the warmth and richness of a well-tended home, where attention to detail creates lasting beauty.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Bright indirect light; no direct sun which can scorch leaves
Water
Moderate; keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, allow surface to dry between waterings
Soil
Well-drained, Rich, Humus-rich, Slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Hardy only in zone 11; primarily grown as houseplant
Requires high humidity (80%+ ideal)
Provide 8-12 hours of light daily; 12 hours needed for blooming
Avoid misting leaves - provide humidity with pebble tray or humidifier
Water with lukewarm water only
Propagates easily by stolons (runners) or leaf cuttings
Shallow roots prefer wide, shallow pots
Clean velvety leaves gently to remove dust
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Hanging baskets and containers
- Terrariums and enclosed plant displays
- Indoor ground cover
- Windowsill gardens
- Living walls and vertical gardens
- Companion plant with other gesneriads
Traditional Uses
- Not used medicinally
- Related to African violets in Gesneriad family
- Excellent air-purifying qualities for indoor spaces
- Non-toxic to humans and pets
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Chocolate Soldier Flower
why are my chocolate soldier leaves turning brown
Brown spots on chocolate soldier leaves are usually caused by direct sunlight, cold water on foliage, or low humidity. Place in bright indirect light and avoid wetting leaves.
how do you propagate chocolate soldier plants
Chocolate soldier propagates easily via stolons (runners) that naturally form plantlets, or by rooting leaf cuttings in moist soil or water at nodes.
why won't my chocolate soldier bloom
Chocolate soldier needs 12 hours of bright indirect light daily to bloom. Ensure adequate light, warmth (65-80°F), high humidity, and regular fertilization during growing season.
can chocolate soldier grow in low humidity
While it can survive, chocolate soldier thrives in high humidity (80%+). In low humidity, use a pebble tray, humidifier, or grow in a terrarium for best results.
is chocolate soldier the same as african violet
No, but they're closely related. Both are in the Gesneriad family, but Episcia cupreata (chocolate soldier) is a different genus with distinctive velvety, colorful foliage and spreading habit.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Streptocarpus
Streptocarpus spp.
Streptocarpus are charming African violets with trumpet-shaped flowers in diverse colors, symbolizing gentle strength, adaptability, and quiet confidence.
Angel Wing Begonia
Begonia coccinea (and hybrids)
Angel Wing Begonia is a striking houseplant with asymmetrical wing-shaped leaves adorned with silver spots and red undersides. It produces cascading clusters of delicate flowers and is beloved for year-round beauty.
Gaillardia
Gaillardia × grandiflora (and other spp.)
Gaillardia, commonly known as blanket flower, is a vibrant daisy-like perennial that blooms from spring to fall. These drought-tolerant plants symbolize warmth, optimism, and resilience.