Large-flowered Collomia
collomia grandiflora
Also known as: ["Grand Collomia","Large-flowered Collomia"]
Overview
A native North American wildflower with showy, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Polemoniales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Collomia |
| Botanical Name: | Collomia grandiflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus mix for container plants; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for outdoor beds.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems to a healthy node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Check for dead or diseased stems; sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove spent blooms.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause leaf damage; frost can be fatal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move potted plants indoors in cold weather; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCollomia grandiflora is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicCollomia grandiflora is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicCollomia grandiflora is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I grow Collomia grandiflora from seeds?
A: Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil in early spring or fall, as they require cold stratification for germination.
Q: Does Collomia grandiflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its bright flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Collomia grandiflora suitable for container gardening?
A: While it can grow in containers, it thrives best in garden beds due to its preference for open, airy conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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