Incarvillea
Contents
Description
Incarvillea is a genus of flowering plants with beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers. There are around 16 species of these stunning plants, which are native to the Himalayas, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The flowers of Incarvillea come in a range of colors, including pink, red, and white. The plant has a tuberous root system that stores nutrients and water, making it drought-tolerant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Incarvillea |
Appearance
The Incarvillea plant is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 3 feet tall. The leaves of the plant are pinnate and are arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem. The flowers of Incarvillea are trumpet-shaped and have five petals that are fused at the base. The flowers are usually 2-3 inches long and appear in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and the flowers can last up to several weeks. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains many small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Incarvillea plants require regular watering during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization: Fertilize Incarvillea plants with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage growth and flowering.
Soil: Incarvillea plants prefer well-draining, fertile soil. Add organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight: Incarvillea plants prefer full sun to partial shade. Provide some shade during the hottest part of the day in hot climates.
Hardiness Zones: Incarvillea plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Incarvillea plants are generally disease and pest resistant, but they can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Watch out for slugs and snails which can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant.
Habitat
Incarvillea plants are native to the Himalayas, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. They grow in rocky areas and on slopes, often in areas with little water. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Incarvillea plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Incarvillea plants can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Incarvillea plants?
A: Fertilize Incarvillea plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Do Incarvillea plants require pruning?
A: Incarvillea plants do not require pruning, but you can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Q: Will Incarvillea plants attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Incarvillea plants are known to attract bees and butterflies with their colorful flowers.
Related Plants
- I. delavayi
- I. emodi
- I. mairei
- I. sinensis
References
- “Incarvillea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286551. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021.
- “Incarvillea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/27534/incarvillea/details. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021.
- “Growing Incarvillea: Tips at a Glance.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/incarvillea/growing-incarvillea.htm. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021.
