Contents
Description
Calceolaria Integrifolia, commonly known as the Slipper Flower, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Calceolariaceae family. Native to the Andes mountains in South America, this plant is known for its distinctive slipper-shaped flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Scrophulariales |
| Family | Calceolariaceae |
| Genus | Calceolaria |
Appearance
The Slipper Flower is a clump-forming plant that can grow up to 60cm in height and 30cm in width. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and lance-shaped, with a toothed margin. The flowers are large, slipper-shaped, and come in shades of yellow, orange, red, and pink. They bloom in the summer and fall, and can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
The Slipper Flower requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Slipper Flower in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Provide the plant with partial shade to full sun, depending on the climate.
- Hardiness Zones: The Slipper Flower can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Slipper Flower is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can be removed with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Slipper Flower is native to the Andes mountains in South America, where it grows at high altitudes in rocky soils. It prefers cool temperatures and high humidity, but can adapt to a range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Slipper Flower be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Slipper Flower can be grown indoors in a bright location with high humidity.
Q: How often should the Slipper Flower be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can the Slipper Flower tolerate frost?
A: No, the Slipper Flower is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How long do the flowers of the Slipper Flower last?
A: The flowers can last for several weeks if the plant is well-cared for.
Related Plants
- Calceolaria Herbeohybrida
- Calceolaria Uniflora
- Calceolaria Crenatiflora
References
- “Calceolaria Integrifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279935&isprofile=0&basic=calceolaria>
- “Calceolaria Integrifolia.” PlantFiles. Accessed 20 August 2021. <https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/67969/>
- “Calceolaria Integrifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7045/i-Calceolaria-integrifolia-i/Details>
