Contents
Description
Collinsia Heterophylla, commonly known as Chinese houses, is a beautiful annual flowering plant native to western North America. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and is a popular choice among gardeners due to its unique and vibrant appearance. The plant features spikes of colorful flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Collinsia |
Appearance
The Collinsia Heterophylla plant can grow up to 1-3 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate, with a length of 1-6 cm and a width of 0.5-2 cm. The flowers are tubular and have a distinct two-lipped shape, with the upper lip being two-lobed and the lower lip being three-lobed. The flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, white, and purple, and are typically about 1 cm long.
Care Guide
Collinsia Heterophylla is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for gardeners. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Chinese houses prefer moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, but be careful not to overwater.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0-7.0.
- Sunlight: Chinese houses prefer full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Collinsia Heterophylla is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Collinsia Heterophylla is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still fall victim to a few common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and flowers, causing damage. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
- Gray mold: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and turn brown. Remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
Habitat
Collinsia Heterophylla is native to western North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and open areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Collinsia Heterophylla a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Collinsia Heterophylla is an annual plant, meaning it completes its lifecycle in one growing season.
Q: Can I grow Collinsia Heterophylla in a container?
A: Yes, Chinese houses can be grown in containers as long as they have enough room to grow and are watered regularly.
Q: How do I deadhead Collinsia Heterophylla?
A: Deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding.
Q: Can I propagate Collinsia Heterophylla from cuttings?
A: No, Chinese houses cannot be propagated from cuttings. They are typically grown from seed.
Related Plants
- Collinsia Grandiflora
- Collinsia Parviflora
- Collinsia Tinctoria
References
- “Collinsia Heterophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=256338.
- “Collinsia Heterophylla.” Plant Database, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=COHE.
- “Collinsia Heterophylla.” Washington Native Plant Society, www.wnps.org/plants/collinsia-heterophylla.html.
