Contents
Description
Calceolaria Crenatiflora is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Calceolariaceae. It is native to the Andes Mountains in South America and is commonly known as the Slipperwort. The plant produces bright yellow, slipper-shaped flowers that are about 2cm long. The leaves are green and slightly hairy. The plant is an annual, meaning it completes its lifecycle within one growing season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Calceolariaceae |
| Genus | Calceolaria |
Appearance
Calceolaria Crenatiflora has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 30cm in height. The leaves are oval-shaped and grow in opposite pairs along the stem. The flowers are the most distinctive feature of the plant, with bright yellow slipper-shaped blooms that are about 2cm long. The flowers have a furry texture and are held on short stalks that emerge from the leaf axils.
Care Guide
Calceolaria Crenatiflora requires moist, well-draining soil and regular watering. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. In warmer climates, the plant may need protection from the afternoon sun. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is also important to deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.The plant is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 and should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures. In colder climates, the plant can be grown as an annual or in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calceolaria Crenatiflora is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If the plant does become infected, it can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Calceolaria Crenatiflora is native to the Andes Mountains in South America and grows at high elevations between 2000-3500 meters above sea level. The plant prefers cool, moist conditions and can be found growing in rocky soils or on cliffs. It is often found growing alongside other alpine plants such as gentians and primroses.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calceolaria Crenatiflora be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright location with cool temperatures.
Q: How often should Calceolaria Crenatiflora be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Does Calceolaria Crenatiflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: What is the best time to plant Calceolaria Crenatiflora?
A: The plant should be planted in the spring after the last frost.
Related Plants
- Calceolaria Integrifolia
- Calceolaria Herbeohybrida
- Calceolaria Uniflora
References
- “Calceolaria Crenatiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n330.
- “Calceolaria Crenatiflora.” PlantFiles, www.plantfiles.com/plant/Calceolaria_crenatiflora.
- “Calceolaria Crenatiflora.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/20638/Calceolaria-crenatiflora/Details.
