This species is another of the Sinningias with an interesting growth habit.  The stems frequently have just one leaf, and bloom directly from the tuber — sometimes in the absence of any foliage. This specimen, exhibited at the 2010 convention of the Gesneriad Society, has two primary leaves and one secondary, also a frequent pattern.

This species has been confused with S. defoliata, even though they are not closely related.  The resemblance in habit is due to evolutionary convergence.

This species has a tuber with “fingers” — extensions from which the stems grow.

Other photos can be seen in a slideshow, by clicking on one of the links below.

• Another show plant, from the 2013 convention of the Gesneriad Society
• A show plant from the 2012 convention
• A plant at the Smithsonian Greenhouses.

An antique print of this species can be seen here.