Ceratostema rauhii 'Alfred'

First photo is of the mother plant. Second image is the exact plant available. ‘Alfred’ is a plant from a friend that has much droopier and narrow leaves, it is an impressive example of the species. 

The most iconic of the Neotropical blueberries, C. rauhii is a higher elevation species unique for its near vertical growth habit and fine, fuzzy leaves. It is reportedly endangered in the wild but seemingly more populations have been found and brought into cultivation. This is a rare opportunity to buy established plants since these guys are almost always imported and their root systems suffer immensely, resulting in their reputation for dying easily.

Despite the elevation data, these can take warm temperatures given that they are not kept sopping wet or bone dry (will rot or dessicate otherwise). Prefers bright light similar to Cattleyas and typically bloom in the spring or fall with pink squidlike flowers. These are quite slow growing but are decently sturdy and make for an unconventional houseplant. Perfect for a plant curtain or a hanging basket indoors or in a greenhouse!