Venus' Looking Glass
triodanis perfoliata
Also known as: ["Venus' Looking Glass","Perfoliate Venus' Looking Glass"]
Overview
A small annual herb with bell-shaped flowers and distinctive perfoliate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Genus: | Triodanis |
| Botanical Name: | Triodanis perfoliata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or open meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun during peak heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild heat but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid overfeeding; apply in the morning for better absorption; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone (if using).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture for cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks; seeds may germinate in 1–3 weeks under ideal conditions.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with additional 2–3 cm in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death in frost conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTriodanis perfoliata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTriodanis perfoliata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTriodanis perfoliata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the common name of Triodanis perfoliata?
A: It is commonly known as Venus' Looking Glass.
Q: Is Triodanis perfoliata toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: What are the care requirements for Triodanis perfoliata?
A: It is an easy-to-grow plant that requires low maintenance and is drought tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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