The term "hardy" can have many meanings. Usually it refers to cold tolerance--which, you are surely aware, is not exactly a quality of either episcia or AV. But chiritas are quite cold tolerant. In our cool winter houses, chiritas are not phased at all by nightly drops into the 50's while episcias hate such drops. AV's really prefer nights as warm as days. But, chiritas can handle drops down to freezing for brief periods. They are somewhat succulent so tolerate small pots and drying out. They can rot if kept too wet though. Most people find them easy but then there are always those who just can't get the knack for them. Don't ask me why. So chiritas also meet the definition of "hardy" as meaning "tough'.

I find them great plants under lights or for window sills. When in flower they are truly regal. But, they don't flower as frequently as AV's. The foliage types are especially nice--look for 'Betty'. 'Hisako', an old favorite now, is a good foliage plus flowers cv. Even the ones with plain green leaves, though, are beautiful foliage rosettes.

Jon, PS Really you shouldn't trust me for recommendations as I like all gesneriads, and endlessly promote them.

I find chiritas much easier to grow than episcias. They seem to be more forgiving in my cooler, dryer conditions. I love them both but prefer the chiritas.

I also can highly recommend Lyndon Lyon for chiritas. I think they are the best when ordering plants. And, if you order before May, for every five plants you order, they will send you one free!

I'm getting my order ready right now ;-)

Linda