Contents
Description
Ipomopsis Aggregata, commonly known as Scarlet Gilia, is a perennial wildflower native to North America. It belongs to the Polemoniaceae family and is a popular addition to gardens due to its vibrant red flowers.The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot. It blooms in the summer months and attracts hummingbirds and bees to its nectar-rich flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Ipomopsis |
Appearance
Ipomopsis Aggregata has slender stems covered in narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are green and can grow up to 3 inches long. The plant produces spikes of bright red, tubular flowers that can grow up to 1 inch long. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in a cluster at the top of the stem. Scarlet Gilia also produces small, oval-shaped seed pods that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Scarlet Gilia is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization
Ipomopsis Aggregata does not require fertilizer but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
Sunlight
Scarlet Gilia requires full sun to thrive and should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The plant grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scarlet Gilia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot in wet conditions. It’s important to ensure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Ipomopsis Aggregata is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, meadows, and open woods. The plant is commonly found in the western United States, including California, Colorado, and Utah.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scarlet Gilia an annual or perennial plant?
A: Scarlet Gilia is a perennial plant.
Q: What type of soil does the plant prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
Q: What is the blooming period of Ipomopsis Aggregata?
A: The plant blooms in the summer months.
Q: What pollinators are attracted to the plant?
A: Scarlet Gilia attracts hummingbirds and bees to its nectar-rich flowers.
Related Plants
– Ipomopsis Rubra- Ipomopsis Tenuifolia- Ipomopsis Polycladon- Ipomopsis Longiflora
References
– “Ipomopsis Aggregata.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 1 Dec. 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ipag.- “Scarlet Gilia (Ipomopsis Aggregata).” Gardenia. Accessed 1 Dec. 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ipomopsis-aggregata-scarlet-gilia.
