Pericallis Hybrida

Description

Pericallis Hybrida, also known as the Florist’s Cineraria, is a popular flowering plant native to the Canary Islands. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly grown as an indoor plant or in outdoor gardens during the spring and fall seasons. The plant produces clusters of daisy-like flowers in various shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. The flowers bloom for several weeks and are often used as cut flowers in bouquets.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Pericallis Hybrida is a compact plant that can grow up to 12 inches in height and 12 inches in width. Its leaves are green, hairy, and lobed, with a velvety texture. The flowers are daisy-like with a yellow center and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The colors of the flowers range from pink, purple, blue, and white. The plant blooms for several weeks during the spring and fall seasons.

Care Guide

Pericallis Hybrida requires moderate care and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips on how to care for your Florist’s Cineraria:Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Do not let the soil dry out completely.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.Sunlight: Pericallis Hybrida prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the plant.Hardiness Zones: Pericallis Hybrida is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pericallis Hybrida is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, such as yellowing leaves or webbing. To prevent and treat pests and diseases, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove any infected leaves or flowers.

Habitat

Pericallis Hybrida is native to the Canary Islands, where it grows in rocky areas and on coastal cliffs. The plant prefers mild temperatures and high humidity, making it suitable for indoor cultivation.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Pericallis Hybrida be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Pericallis Hybrida can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.Q: How often should Pericallis Hybrida be fertilized?
A: Pericallis Hybrida should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.Q: What is the ideal pH for Pericallis Hybrida soil?
A: The ideal pH for Pericallis Hybrida soil is 6.0 to 6.5, slightly acidic.Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Pericallis Hybrida?
A: Pericallis Hybrida is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Pericallis Hybrida:

• Senecio cineraria
• Senecio rowleyanus
• Senecio aureus

References

• “Pericallis Hybrida.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a182.
• “Pericallis Hybrida.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/216255/i-pericallis-hybrida-i/details.
• “Pericallis Hybrida.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/cineraria/growing-cineraria-plants.htm.