Contents
Description
Collinsia Tinctoria, commonly known as the Chinese Houses plant or Blue Lips, is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to California and Oregon, but it has been introduced to other regions for ornamental purposes. This plant grows up to 50 centimeters in height and forms a small clump of leaves at the base. The flowers are tubular and bloom in early spring, attracting bees and butterflies with their stunning colors. The petals are blue-violet with white markings, resembling a tiny house or a pair of lips.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Collinsia |
Appearance
Collinsia Tinctoria has a beautiful appearance that makes it a popular choice for gardeners. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate, with a serrated margin. The stem is erect, slender, and hairy, with a reddish tinge. The flowers are arranged in terminal racemes, with each flower having a tubular corolla that is about 1 to 2 centimeters long. The petals are blue-purple with white markings at the base, forming a unique shape that resembles a tiny house or a pair of lips. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small seeds.
Care Guide
Collinsia Tinctoria is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in most soil types. Here are some tips to help you take care of this beautiful plant:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil, enriched with organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun or partial shade, depending on your climate.
- Hardiness Zones: Collinsia Tinctoria is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Collinsia Tinctoria is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it may still be susceptible to some problems. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap out of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves. Keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or copper tape to keep them away.
Habitat
Collinsia Tinctoria is native to California and Oregon, where it grows in moist meadows, woodlands, and open areas. It prefers rich soil and partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun. This plant is adapted to a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Collinsia Tinctoria be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough for the plant to grow.Q: How often should I fertilize Collinsia Tinctoria?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the best time to plant Collinsia Tinctoria?
A: Plant in the spring after the last frost or in the fall before the first frost.Q: Can I propagate Collinsia Tinctoria from seed?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring or fall, covering them lightly with soil.
Related Plants
- Collinsia Grandiflora
- Collinsia Heterophylla
- Collinsia Multicolor
- Collinsia Parviflora
References
- “Collinsia Tinctoria.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b343
- “Collinsia Tinctoria.” Plant Database. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=coti2
- “Collinsia Tinctoria.” Plant Finder. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/chinese-houses/chinese-houses-plant.htm
