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Episcia cupreata, Flame Violet, 'Copper'
Episcia cupreata, Flame Violet, 'Copper'
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Note: Episcia will change foliage colors due to light and environmental conditions. We grow in lower light and colors will be darker. High light will bring out the distinctive colors more.
Episcia cupreata ‘Copper’
Warmth, Texture, and Tropical Charm All in One Plant
When you want a houseplant that glows with warmth, brings tropical energy to your space, and is easy to grow, Episcia cupreata ‘Copper’ is a perfect choice. Known for its rich, bronzy-orange foliage and soft velvety leaves, this stunning cultivar of the Flame Violet family is a true showstopper—especially when it starts blooming with its fiery red flowers.
Whether you're new to growing Episcias or adding to an already thriving collection, ‘Copper’ offers beauty, color, and texture that makes it stand out in any indoor garden.
Let’s explore why this plant belongs in your home and how you can help it thrive.
Why Grow ‘Copper’?
This plant is like having a living flame in your collection. Its foliage features deep coppery-brown tones, often with metallic highlights and darker veining. The leaves are plush, velvety, and reflect light in the most beautiful way. In bright but indirect light, they shimmer with warmth and earthy richness.
And just when you think it can’t get better—here come the flowers. Episcia ‘Copper’ produces bright red, tubular blooms that add even more energy to the plant’s glowing foliage. They seem to hover just above the leaves, like tiny lanterns lighting the way.
Quick Facts
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Botanical name: Episcia cupreata ‘Copper’
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Common name: Flame Violet
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Plant type: Tropical, trailing houseplant
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Foliage: Copper to bronze with a velvety texture
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Flowers: Tubular, bright red
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Growth: Compact, spreads by runners
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Light: Bright, indirect
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Water: Keep evenly moist
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Humidity: High
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Pet-friendly: Yes!
How to Grow and Care for Episcia ‘Copper’
With the right conditions, Episcia ‘Copper’ is low-maintenance and rewarding. Here’s your care roadmap.
1. Light: Soft but Strong
This plant loves bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight is too harsh for its delicate leaves and will cause sunburn.
Good options:
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East-facing windows
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Filtered light from a sheer curtain
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Grow lights if natural light is low
Too little light will make the color fade and slow its growth. But too much can cause bleaching or crispy edges.
2. Water: Just Right Is Best
Episcia ‘Copper’ needs consistent moisture, but the soil should never stay soggy.
Here’s a simple watering routine:
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Check the soil surface every few days.
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Water when the top inch feels dry.
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Water thoroughly, but make sure excess drains away.
Avoid watering the crown of the plant, especially in cool conditions, to reduce the risk of rot.
3. Humidity: The Secret Ingredient
This tropical beauty thrives in high humidity—ideally 60% or more.
Simple ways to boost humidity:
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Place a tray of water and pebbles under the pot
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Use a room humidifier
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Group it with other plants to create a humidity bubble
Dry air leads to dull, crispy leaves and stressed plants. Humidity keeps the colors rich and the growth full.
4. Soil: Light and Breathable
Your Episcia will thrive in a well-draining, airy mix. Use:
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2 parts coco coir or peat moss
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1 part perlite
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1 part orchid bark or African violet mix
This keeps roots happy by allowing air flow and preventing soggy soil.
5. Temperature: Keep It Warm
Episcia ‘Copper’ loves warm, stable temperatures. Ideal range: 65°F to 80°F (18°C–27°C).
Protect it from:
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Cold drafts
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Air conditioning
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Sudden temperature swings
If your home feels comfortable to you, it’ll feel good to your plant, too.
6. Feeding: Low Doses, Big Rewards
During the growing season (spring through early fall), feed every 2–4 weeks with a half-strength, balanced liquid fertilizer.
Best options:
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African violet food
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Flowering houseplant fertilizer
Stop feeding in winter when the plant slows down. Overfeeding can fade the foliage and harm the roots.
7. Propagation: Nature’s Gift
Episcia ‘Copper’ makes baby plants on its own, sending out runners with small plantlets at the end.
How to propagate:
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Place a small pot with moist soil next to the mother plant.
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Pin the plantlet to the soil using a paperclip or small stake.
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Once roots develop, cut it from the main plant.
This method is easy, fun, and gives you more plants to share or keep.
Trouble-Shooting Common Issues
Let’s solve any hiccups before they grow.
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Yellowing leaves? Could be overwatering or poor drainage.
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Brown edges? Usually caused by low humidity.
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Leaves curling or drooping? The plant may be too dry—or the air may be too cold.
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Dull colors? Move to a brighter spot with indirect light.
The good news? This plant is forgiving. With a little adjustment, it perks right back up.
Styling and Display Tips
The warm tones of ‘Copper’ make it a fantastic accent piece. Try it in:
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A hanging basket, letting the runners drape down
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A terracotta or dark ceramic pot to bring out the foliage color
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A mixed tropical shelf with ferns, pileas, or begonia companions
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A glass cloche or open terrarium for a humidity boost and elegant display
Its spreading habit also makes it great for tabletop displays that fill out beautifully over time.
Let’s Recap
Episcia cupreata ‘Copper’ is a heart-stealer with:
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Rich, bronzy-copper foliage that glows with warmth
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Fiery red flowers that contrast beautifully with the leaves
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Soft, velvety texture you’ll love to touch
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Trailing growth that works in baskets, shelves, or small containers
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Easy propagation, making it a gift that keeps on giving
It brings life and light to any room—and with just a little humidity and love, it will reward you year-round.
Ready to let this tropical treasure warm up your space? With Episcia ‘Copper’ in your collection, every day feels a little brighter.





