Canary Bellflower
canarina canariensis
Also known as: ["Canary Islands Bellflower","Canary Bellflower"]
Overview
A climbing vine native to the Canary Islands, known for its bell-shaped, orange-red flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Canarina |
| Botanical Name: | Canarina canariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or sheltered outdoor spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor environments, rarely needed outdoors
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered sunlight
Rotate plant 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 proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, loamy, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with fresh mix annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season (spring to summer), none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- 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 (70–75°F or 21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and better flowering.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/leggy stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches 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; promotes growth and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; 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 directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; allow soil to dry between waterings.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve aeration and drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure drainage; use shade cloth if outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCanarina canariensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicCanarina canariensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicCanarina canariensis is not known to be toxic to humans. It has no reported adverse effects on human health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Canarina canariensis?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Canarina canariensis require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: Is Canarina canariensis suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, but can be grown indoors with adequate light and support.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered sunl |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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