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Description
Mitraria Coccinea, also known as the Chilean Mitre Flower, is a perennial plant native to Chile and Argentina. This evergreen creeper has vibrant red-orange tubular flowers that bloom in spring and summer, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. It grows up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, trellises, and as a ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Mitraria |
Appearance
Mitraria Coccinea has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow up to 3 inches long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and measure up to 2 inches long, with a bright red-orange color and yellow throats. The plant has a sprawling growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 6 feet long. It can be trained to climb trellises or walls, or allowed to trail over the edges of containers or baskets.
Care Guide
Water: Mitraria Coccinea prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to wilt and drop its leaves.
Fertilization: Feed Mitraria Coccinea with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Use a fertilizer with a higher potassium content to encourage more flowers.
Soil: Mitraria Coccinea prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a high-quality potting mix that contains peat moss or compost.
Sunlight: Mitraria Coccinea prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun if given enough water. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Mitraria Coccinea is hardy in USDA zones 8-10, and can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mitraria Coccinea is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so be sure to provide adequate drainage.
Habitat
Mitraria Coccinea is native to the temperate forests of Chile and Argentina, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees and rocks. It prefers a cool and moist environment, with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mitraria Coccinea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Mitraria Coccinea can be grown indoors in a bright, humid environment. Provide it with regular water, fertilization, and a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Mitraria Coccinea?
A: Feed Mitraria Coccinea with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Use a fertilizer with a higher potassium content to encourage more flowers.
Q: Can Mitraria Coccinea tolerate full sun?
A: Mitraria Coccinea prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun if given enough water. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Q: How can I propagate Mitraria Coccinea?
A: Mitraria Coccinea can be propagated by stem cuttings in the spring or summer. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from the tip of a stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cutting roots.
Related Plants
- Gloxinia
- Achimenes
- Streptocarpus
- Sinningia
- Episcia
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/mitre-flower/growing-mitre-flowers.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/mitre-flower-plant-profile-4768283
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/mitraria-coccinea
