Fraser's Columbine

tellima grandiflora

Also known as: ["Fringecup","Bigflower Tellima"]

Family: Saxifragaceae Genus: Tellima Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous perennial native to the Pacific Northwest, known for its distinctive fringed flowers and attractive foliage.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Saxifragales
Family: Saxifragaceae
Genus: Tellima
Botanical Name: Tellima grandiflora

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: every 1–2 weeks, especially in dry indoor environments
  • Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on season.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.

Soil

moist, rich, well-drained soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; use organic amendments; check pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)

Fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).

Medium

Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in cold climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may become leggy; increased water demand.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Tellima grandiflora may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthesis and overall vigor.

Wilting in Tellima grandiflora is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to cell damage and plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Tellima grandiflora may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Tellima grandiflora due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and loss of structural integrity.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Tellima grandiflora is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant health risk if ingested.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor your pet if they consume large amounts of any plant material.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Tellima grandiflora is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant health risk if ingested.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor your pet if they consume large amounts of any plant material.
Humans
Non-toxic

Tellima grandiflora is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I propagate Tellima grandiflora?

A: It can be propagated by division in early spring or by seed sown in fall or early spring.

Q: Does Tellima grandiflora attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.

Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Tellima grandiflora?

A: It thrives in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil and moderate water levels.

Quick Reference
Family: Saxifragaceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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