Pocketbook Plant
calceolaria integrifolia
Also known as: ["Pocketbook Flower","Lipstick Plant"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with distinctive slipper-shaped flowers, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Calceolariaceae |
| Genus: | Calceolaria |
| Botanical Name: | Calceolaria integrifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and a bit of compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from intense afternoon sun; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–70°F (15–21°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) during dormancy in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips and cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and leggy growth to encourage bushier, more compact plants.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (too hot), stunted growth (too cold), bud drop (fluctuating temps).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may become leggy due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer strength, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalceolaria integrifolia is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCalceolaria integrifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCalceolaria integrifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. There are no known adverse effects from handling or ingesting small amounts of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Calceolaria integrifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Calceolaria integrifolia require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight to avoid scorching its leaves.
Q: Why are the flowers dropping off my Calceolaria?
A: This may be due to overwatering, underwatering, or sudden temperature changes. Ensure consistent care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Calceolariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App StoreRelated Plants
