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Description
Calceolariaceae is a family of flowering plants that are native to South America. It is commonly known as slipperwort due to the shape of its flowers. Calceolariaceae consists of around 300 species that are mainly grown for their colorful and unique flowers. The plants come in various sizes, ranging from small shrubs to tall trees. The family is well-known for its bright yellow, orange, and red flowers, which resemble a slipper or pouch.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Calceolariaceae |
| Genus | Calceolaria |
Appearance
Calceolariaceae plants have unique and colorful flowers that are slipper-shaped. The flowers have two lips – an upper one that covers the stamen and a lower one that serves as a landing pad for pollinators. The upper lip is usually more prominent and has a pouch-like shape that looks like a slipper. The flowers come in various colors, including yellow, orange, red, purple, and pink. The leaves of Calceolariaceae plants are usually smooth and green, while some species have fuzzy or hairy leaves. The plants can grow up to 3 feet tall, depending on the species.
Care Guide
Calceolariaceae plants require specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your plants healthy:- Water: Calceolariaceae plants need regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry.- Fertilization: Feed Calceolariaceae plants every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period.- Soil: Calceolariaceae plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that contains perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite.- Sunlight: Calceolariaceae plants need bright but indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as it can damage the leaves and flowers. Place them near a window that receives filtered light.- Hardiness Zones: Calceolariaceae plants thrive in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calceolariaceae plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and deform.- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the sap of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out.- Whiteflies: These small, white insects feed on the sap of the leaves, causing them to yellow and fall off.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves, which can lead to leaf drop and stunted growth.- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt.
Habitat
Calceolariaceae plants are native to South America and are found in various habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky areas. They prefer well-draining soil and bright but indirect sunlight. Some species of Calceolariaceae plants are grown as ornamental plants in gardens, while others are used for medicinal purposes.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the meaning of the name Calceolariaceae?
A: The name Calceolariaceae is derived from the Latin word calceolus, which means “little shoe.” It refers to the shape of the flowers, which resemble a slipper or pouch.
Q: Are Calceolariaceae plants toxic to pets?
A: Calceolariaceae plants are not toxic to pets, but it is essential to keep them out of reach, as the leaves and flowers can cause mild stomach upset if ingested.
Q: Can Calceolariaceae plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Calceolariaceae plants can be grown indoors in bright but indirect sunlight. They prefer a humid environment, so it is essential to mist them regularly.
Q: How do I propagate Calceolariaceae plants?
A: Calceolariaceae plants can be propagated from stem cuttings or seeds. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer and rooted in a well-draining soil mix. Seeds can be sown in the spring in a seed-starting mix and kept moist until germination.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Calceolariaceae:- Digitalis purpurea (Foxglove)- Mimulus spp. (Monkeyflower)- Penstemon spp. (Beardtongue)- Salvia spp. (Sage)- Verbascum spp. (Mullein)
References
– “Calceolariaceae.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281152.- “Calceolaria.” Plant Information Online, www.plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1422432.- “Slipper Flower.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/calceolaria-slipper-flower.
