Tree Dahlia

pericallis echinata

Also known as: ["Dahlia echinata","Cineraria echinata"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Pericallis Category: Flowers

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae, native to the Canary Islands. It is a shrubby perennial with spiny stems and daisy-like flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Pericallis
Botanical Name: Pericallis echinata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock garden, coastal garden, or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent 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 growth if needed.
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:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid drafty windows.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter

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 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth year-round.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Let cut end dry for a day.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).

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 new pot after 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pot, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth starts.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh, well-draining soil.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without saturation; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause root damage or leaf discoloration in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.

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

Yellow leaves in Pericallis echinata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Pericallis echinata can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage from pests or pathogens, affecting the plant's ability to transport water.

Leaf spots on Pericallis echinata may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop if the infection spreads.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Pericallis echinata due to excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and eventual plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Pericallis echinata is not known to be toxic to cats under normal circumstances.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are required for keeping this plant around cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Pericallis echinata is not known to be toxic to dogs under normal circumstances.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are required for keeping this plant around dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Pericallis echinata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are required for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Pericallis echinata toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should Pericallis echinata be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Pericallis echinata attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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