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Description
Calandrinia Ciliata, commonly known as Redmaids or Rock Purslane, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Montiaceae family. This plant is native to the western United States, where it thrives in hot, dry climates. It is an herbaceous perennial that grows up to 30 centimeters tall and spreads up to 60 centimeters wide. Its leaves are linear and succulent, and its flowers are bright pink, magenta, or purple, measuring up to 2.5 centimeters in diameter. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Montiaceae |
| Genus | Calandrinia |
Appearance
Calandrinia Ciliata is a beautiful plant that adds color to any garden or landscape. Its leaves are linear and succulent, measuring up to 10 centimeters long and 3 millimeters wide. They are green, sometimes with a reddish tint, and grow in a rosette formation at the base of the plant. Its flowers are bright pink, magenta, or purple, measuring up to 2.5 centimeters in diameter, and bloom from late spring to early summer. They grow on long, slender stems that rise above the foliage.
Care Guide
Calandrinia Ciliata is a low-maintenance plant that prefers well-draining soil and full sun. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
- Water: 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: Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Calandrinia Ciliata prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calandrinia Ciliata is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can be removed with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage. To prevent it, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Calandrinia Ciliata is native to the western United States, where it grows in rocky, dry habitats such as hillsides, deserts, and chaparrals. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and hot temperatures, making it a great choice for xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calandrinia Ciliata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Calandrinia Ciliata can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should Calandrinia Ciliata be fertilized?
A: Calandrinia Ciliata should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Calandrinia Ciliata invasive?
A: No, Calandrinia Ciliata is not considered invasive.
Q: How can I propagate Calandrinia Ciliata?
A: Calandrinia Ciliata can be propagated by seed or by dividing the plant in the spring.
Related Plants
- Calandrinia Grandiflora
- Calandrinia Umbellata
- Calandrinia Spectabilis
References
- “Calandrinia Ciliata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287938.
- “Calandrinia Ciliata.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 31, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/calandrinia-ciliata.
- “Calandrinia Ciliata – Plant Finder.” Sunset Western Garden Collection. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.sunsetwesterngardencollection.com/plantfinder/calandrinia-ciliata/.
