Contents
Description
Holmskioldia Sanguinea, commonly known as Chinese hat plant or Mandarin hat plant, is a tropical evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The plant produces beautiful clusters of flowers that resemble Chinese hats, hence the name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Holmskioldia |
Appearance
The Chinese hat plant has glossy, dark green leaves that are 3-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are tubular, bright orange-red, and grow in clusters that are about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant blooms from summer to fall, and the flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The fruit is a small, round, brown capsule that contains seeds.
Care Guide
To care for the Chinese hat plant, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and needs regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown in containers or in the ground.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese hat plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-watered. If an infestation occurs, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The Chinese hat plant is native to Southeast Asia and grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate heat and humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Chinese hat plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Chinese hat plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Chinese hat plant?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Chinese hat plant?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: How do I prune the Chinese hat plant?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant at this time by trimming back any overgrown branches.
Related Plants
- Holmskioldia tettensis
- Holmskioldia sanguine var. angustifolia
- Holmskioldia sanguinea ‘Fireworks’
References
- “Holmskioldia sanguinea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 9 August 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Chinese Hat Plant Care: Tips On Growing Holmskioldia Sanguinea.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 9 August 2021. www.gardeningknowhow.com.
- “Holmskioldia Sanguinea.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 9 August 2021. www.plantdelights.com.
