Tellima

Description

Tellima is a genus of flowering plants in the Saxifragaceae family, consisting of two species native to North America. The name Tellima comes from the Greek word ‘tellin’ which means ‘to cut’, referring to the deeply divided leaves of the plant. The plant is also known as fringe cups due to the fringed petals of its flowers. The plant has an interesting history as it was once classified as a member of the genus Lithophragma, but it was later separated into its own genus due to its unique characteristics.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Saxifragales
Family	Saxifragaceae
Genus	Tellima

Appearance

The Tellima plant has basal rosettes of leaves with deeply divided lobes that form a cup-like structure. The leaves are hairy and can grow up to 12 inches long. The plant produces multiple stems that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, are bell-shaped, with five fringed petals that are white, pink, or greenish-yellow in color. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.

Care Guide

Tellima is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade to full shade. Here are some tips on how to care for Tellima:

• Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Plant in rich, well-drained soil with a neutral pH level.
• Sunlight: Plant in partial to full shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Tellima can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Tellima is not commonly affected by pests or diseases, but it can be susceptible to slugs and snails. To prevent damage from these pests, use slug and snail bait or traps. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so be sure to avoid waterlogging the soil.

Habitat

Tellima is native to North America, where it can be found in the western United States and Canada. The plant is commonly found in moist, shady areas, such as forests, woodlands, and meadows. It is also sometimes found in rocky areas and along stream banks.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Tellima tolerate full sun?

A: No, Tellima prefers partial to full shade.

Q: How often should I water my Tellima plant?

A: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Q: Can Tellima be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Tellima can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and it has good drainage.

Q: When should I fertilize my Tellima plant?

A: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

• Lithophragma
• Saxifraga
• Heuchera
• Tolmiea

References

• “Tellima grandiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c800.
• “Tellima grandiflora.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/2632/.
• “Tellima grandiflora.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/32378/Tellima-grandiflora/Details.