Cineraria

Description

Cineraria (Pericallis cruenta) is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the Canary Islands and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful and vibrant blooms. Cineraria is a short-lived perennial that typically grows up to 1-2 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width. It has a compact habit with a rosette of basal leaves and produces showy flowers that come in shades of pink, purple, red, and white.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cineraria produces a rosette of basal leaves that are typically green or gray-green in color with a velvety texture. These leaves are lobed, toothed, and can grow up to 8 inches long. The flowers of Cineraria come in clusters and can be single or double blooms. They have a daisy-like appearance and range in color from pink, purple, red, and white. The flowers can grow up to 2 inches in diameter and have a yellow center.

Care Guide

Cineraria is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have specific requirements to thrive. Water: Cineraria prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Feed Cineraria with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Soil: Cineraria prefers a slightly acidic, well-draining soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for this plant.Sunlight: Cineraria prefers bright but indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.Hardiness Zones: Cineraria is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cineraria is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can all attack Cineraria. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.Diseases: Cineraria is prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis. Ensure proper air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering to prevent these diseases.

Habitat

Cineraria is native to the Canary Islands, where it grows in rocky, mountainous regions. It prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil and bright but indirect light.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Cineraria plant?
A: Water your Cineraria plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.Q: What kind of soil does Cineraria prefer?
A: Cineraria prefers a slightly acidic, well-draining soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for this plant.Q: What are some common pests that attack Cineraria?
A: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can all attack Cineraria.Q: What are some common diseases that affect Cineraria?
A: Cineraria is prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis.

Related Plants

• Aster
• Chrysanthemum
• Daisy
• Gazania
• Marigold
• Zinnia

References

• BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. (2021). How to grow cinerarias. BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-cinerarias/
• BHG. (n.d.). Cineraria. BHG. https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/annual/cineraria/
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Pericallis cruenta. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282566