Contents
Description
Collinsia Childii, commonly known as Child’s blue-eyed Mary or Child’s collinsia, is a beautiful annual herbaceous plant native to California. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and is a popular choice among gardeners due to its attractive blue-purple flowers and ease of cultivation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Collinsia |
Appearance
Collinsia Childii can grow up to 12 inches tall and 8 inches wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves with serrated edges that grow up to 2 inches long. Its flowers are blue-purple with white throats and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The petals are fused at the base, forming a tube that flares out into two lips. The lower lip is three-lobed, while the upper lip is two-lobed. The plant blooms from March to June.
Care Guide
Collinsia Childii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some tips for its care:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Plant in partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Collinsia Childii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Collinsia Childii is generally disease and pest-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies may also infest the plant, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Collinsia Childii is native to California and can be found in meadows, woodlands, and chaparrals. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Collinsia Childii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Collinsia Childii can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its roots and provide good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Collinsia Childii?
A: Fertilize Collinsia Childii once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Collinsia Childii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Collinsia Childii attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Can I grow Collinsia Childii from seed?
A: Yes, Collinsia Childii can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in early spring in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until they germinate.
Related Plants
- Collinsia Grandiflora
- Collinsia Heterophylla
- Collinsia Parviflora
- Collinsia Tinctoria
References
- “Collinsia Childii,” Las Pilitas Nursery.
- “Collinsia Childii,” San Francisco Botanical Garden.
- “Collinsia Childii,” USDA Plants Database.
