Contents
Description
Calandrinia is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family of Portulacaceae. It is native to South America, but it has been introduced to other continents, including North America, Africa, and Australia. The Calandrinia genus comprises about 20 species of annual or perennial plants that are known for their bright and showy flowers. The flowers are usually pink, red, or purple and bloom during the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Portulacaceae |
| Genus | Calandrinia |
Appearance
Calandrinia plants are low-growing and spreading. The leaves are usually succulent and narrow, and the stem is reddish or pinkish. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have five petals. They bloom in clusters and are usually pink, red, or purple. The flowers have a short lifespan and only last for a few days. The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and spread up to 24 inches in width.
Care Guide
Calandrinia plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your Calandrinia plant healthy:Water: Calandrinia plants need moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Calandrinia plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.Sunlight: Calandrinia plants require full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Calandrinia plants are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. They can be grown as annuals in colder zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calandrinia plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Overwatering can also cause fungal diseases.
Habitat
Calandrinia plants are native to South America, where they grow in dry and arid regions. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They can be found in coastal regions, deserts, and mountainous areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calandrinia plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Calandrinia plants can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining soil mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.Q: How often should I fertilize my Calandrinia plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the ideal pH for Calandrinia soil?
A: Calandrinia plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.Q: How tall can Calandrinia plants grow?
A: Calandrinia plants can grow up to 12 inches in height and spread up to 24 inches in width.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Calandrinia:- Portulaca grandiflora (Moss Rose)- Talinum paniculatum (Jewels of Opar)- Claytonia sibirica (Siberian Spring Beauty)
References
– “Calandrinia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 Jan. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calandrinia.- “Calandrinia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c433.
