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Description
Calceolaria Uniflora, commonly known as Dwarf Slipperwort or Pocketbook Plant, is an ornamental plant that belongs to the family Calceolariaceae. It is native to South America and is widely cultivated for its bright yellow flowers that resemble a small pouch or slipper. The flowers bloom from spring to summer and are a favorite among gardeners due to their unique shape and intense color. The plant itself grows up to 10cm in height and is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Calceolariaceae |
| Genus | Calceolaria |
Appearance
Calceolaria Uniflora is a small, herbaceous perennial that forms a compact rosette of oval-shaped, green leaves. The leaves are up to 5cm long and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are borne on short stalks above the leaves and are about 2cm in diameter. They are bright yellow in color and have a unique shape that resembles a small pouch or slipper. The flowers have two lips, with the upper lip being much larger than the lower lip. The plant blooms from spring to summer and can produce flowers for several weeks. Overall, Calceolaria Uniflora is a charming and attractive plant that adds a splash of color to any garden.
Care Guide
Calceolaria Uniflora is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Calceolaria Uniflora prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Calceolaria Uniflora is hardy in zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calceolaria Uniflora is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Whiteflies: These tiny, winged insects can also suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or sticky traps to control them.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause grayish-brown spots on the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Calceolaria Uniflora is native to the Andes Mountains of South America, where it grows in rocky, alpine regions. It prefers well-draining soil and cool temperatures, but can tolerate some heat and humidity. The plant is often found growing in crevices and rocky outcroppings, where it is protected from strong winds and excessive moisture.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calceolaria Uniflora be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Calceolaria Uniflora can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is kept in a cool, humid environment.
Q: How often should I water Calceolaria Uniflora?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater it.
Q: How can I propagate Calceolaria Uniflora?
A: Calceolaria Uniflora can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a bright, humid location until they root.
Q: Does Calceolaria Uniflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Calceolaria Uniflora is pollinated by bees and other insects that are attracted to its bright yellow flowers.
Related Plants
- Calceolaria Crenatiflora
- Calceolaria Herbeohybrida
- Calceolaria Integrifolia
- Calceolaria Rugosa
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Calceolaria Uniflora. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=250993
- RHS. (n.d.). Calceolaria Uniflora. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/315023/calceolaria-uniflora/details
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Dwarf Slipperwort. Retrieved from https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/dwarf-slipperwort.html
