Standing Cypress
ipomopsis rubra
Also known as: ["Scarlet Gilia","Tobacco Flower"]
Overview
A vibrant, annual flowering plant native to North America, known for its striking red, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Polemoniales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Ipomopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Ipomopsis rubra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade to protect from excessive heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use reflective mulch to enhance light reflection; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid overwatering; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to prevent excessive foliage at the expense of blooms; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Seeds are the most common method for Ipomopsis rubra.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare cuttings or seeds.
- Use rooting hormone if desired.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Provide warmth and light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with bright, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of perlite and peat moss, or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; stem cuttings typically root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to encourage branching; remove any damaged or diseased growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead regularly; trim selectively; monitor for regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 2–3 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; provide shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next session.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter or drought. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death, especially in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering if water and light conditions are not managed.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
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. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicIpomopsis rubra is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicIpomopsis rubra is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicIpomopsis rubra is not known to have significant toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Standing Cypress require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun conditions.
Q: How tall does Standing Cypress grow?
A: It can reach heights of 3 to 5 feet.
Q: Is Standing Cypress deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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