Candystripe
pericallis cruenta
Also known as: ["Candystripe Daisy","Candystripe Fleabane"]
Overview
A striking daisy-like plant with vibrant red and yellow striped petals, native to the Canary Islands.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Pericallis |
| Botanical Name: | Pericallis cruenta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border in mild climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"7–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; move indoors during extreme heat or cold; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; use a mix suitable for succulents or cacti.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 85°F (29°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced fertilizer for even growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity until roots form; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or diseased stems first.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems first; cut above nodes; clean up debris; monitor for new growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; repot; water lightly; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust for season.
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; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing leaves in cold; stunted growth or leaf scorch in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure good drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before application; avoid foliage contact; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); discontinue in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Pericallis cruenta may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. Skin contact with the plant's sap can also cause irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Pericallis cruenta by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation if contact occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPericallis cruenta contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested by humans. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Pericallis cruenta be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Pericallis cruenta require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Pericallis cruenta be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its preference for open air and sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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