Content
- Slipper flower is not hardy
- Slipper flowers in room culture
- Two- and multi-annual slipper flowers
- Slipper flowers multiply
- Cut back slipper flowers?
- Tips
Most slipper flower species are not hardy
Slipper flower is not hardy
With its fluffy flowers in bright colors, the slipper flower (Calceolaria) is a popular flowering plant for the balcony, garden and room culture. Its flowers are reminiscent of a slip shoe, hence the German name of this interesting plant, originally from the subtropical South American originating plant.
Previous article Slipper flower - care, fertilization and propagationSlipper flowers in room culture
There are about 300 different species of the slipper flower, which are partly one year old, but sometimes also two or even several years old. Most of the specimens sold in August are usually only annuals that flower over the winter and eventually die off after flowering. These plants do not require special wintering, but simply get a nice, warm spot on the local windowsill.
Two- and multi-annual slipper flowers
Other species and varieties, in turn, have been specially bred for a perennial culture on the balcony or in the garden, although in particular the slipper flowers sometimes declared as "hardy" are not. Although you can plant winter hardy slipper flowers in the garden, but there the plants need sufficient protection through a cover with leaves and brushwood. In particular, biennial, usually not hardy, varieties overwinter under cold conditions cold-free, but cool at a maximum of 10 ° C. Make sure you have enough light in the winter quarters!
Slipper flowers multiply
Instead of laboriously hibernating the plants, in the autumn you can simply use the mother plant for propagation and instead bring the cuttings over the winter.
Cut back slipper flowers?
Unlike many other perennials, you do not have to cut back slipper flowers before the winter break. Instead, it is sufficient to remove faded and dried plant parts regularly - then the plant often develops another flower. However, you should occasionally water slipper flowers in winter quarters, only fertilizing can be omitted.
Tips
The garden slipper flower (Calceolaria integrifolia) was specially bred for planting in the garden. Particularly hardy varieties are "Sunset", "Sunshine" and "Goldbukett". These are usually very successful in the spring.