Lindernia Grandiflora

Description

Lindernia Grandiflora, commonly known as False Pimpernel, is a small, herbaceous, annual plant that belongs to the family Linderniaceae. It is native to Asia and Australia but has been naturalized in other parts of the world, including North America.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The False Pimpernel is a small plant that grows up to 10-30 cm tall. It has small, oval-shaped, green leaves that grow opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces small, delicate, blue or purple flowers that are approximately 1 cm in diameter with five petals. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

The False Pimpernel is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Here are some tips for taking care of it:

• Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, loamy soil. If the soil is heavy clay, add organic matter to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it will benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The False Pimpernel is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.

Habitat

The False Pimpernel is found in wetlands, marshes, and along streams and rivers in its native range. In other parts of the world, it is commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, gardens, and fields. It prefers moist, shaded areas but can tolerate some sun.

Question and Answer

Q: Can False Pimpernel be grown indoors?

A: While False Pimpernel can be grown indoors, it prefers moist, shaded areas and may not do as well in indoor conditions.

Q: Is False Pimpernel invasive?

A: False Pimpernel can be invasive in some areas, particularly in wetlands and along waterways.

Q: Can False Pimpernel be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, False Pimpernel can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.

Q: How often should False Pimpernel be fertilized?

A: False Pimpernel should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

• Lindernia Procumbens
• Lindernia Rotundifolia
• Lindernia Crustacea

References

• “Lindernia Grandiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a312.
• “Lindernia Grandiflora (Roxb.).” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:568625-1.
• “False Pimpernel.” Plant Care Today, 11 June 2021, plantcaretoday.com/false-pimpernel.html.