This fine hybrid of Sinningia bullata x S. ‘Kevin Garnett’ was created by Alcie Maxwell. It has what is known as “calyx double” features. The calyx, rather than being the usual small leafy green structure, has morphed into a “tube” enveloping the corolla tube. The prominent calyx lobes then have the appearance of extra petals. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as “tube-in-tube” or “hose-in-hose”, the latter implying pulling on two pairs of socks or nylons.

S. ‘Owlsee Red Hot’ likes a lot of light, and can be grown outdoors to good effect. The feature plant above was grown on a Florida lanai, outdoors for most of its life. Other photos are of plants grown indoors under lights.

This hybrid typically produces a very prominent tuber, most often allowed to grow above the soil level and become part of the display.

Additional photos can be seen in a slideshow by clicking one of the links below:

• • A well-rounded and tidy plant, displayed in a window
  • New growth on a big tuber, with flowers
  • A spectacular plant exhibited in the 2021 virtual show of the Gesneriad Society
  • A close view of the flowers
  • A flowering crown, with the foliage appearing somewhat darker than is usually the case
  • Another flowering crown
  • A fine plant exhibited at the 2024 convention show of the Gesneriad Society