Chilean Bellflower
lapageria rosea
Also known as: ["Copihue","Chilean Glory Flower"]
Overview
A climbing evergreen vine native to the temperate rainforests of southern Chile, known for its large, waxy, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Philesiaceae |
| Genus: | Lapageria |
| Botanical Name: | Lapageria rosea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden spot with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"7–20°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, acidic soil with plenty of organic matter, such as peat moss or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure seasonally to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; place in filtered light or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; water less in winter; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, acidic, peat-based mix
pH: Acidic, ideally between 5.5 and 6.5.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C) during the day, with a drop to 45–55°F (7–13°C) at night. Avoid temperatures above 70°F (21°C) for prolonged periods.
Keep away from heat sources; maintain cool nights; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to prevent root burn; fertilize only during active growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with a heel or division of mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting with a heel, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent temperatures around 60–65°F (15–18°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage and moisture retention.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, peat-based medium, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use heel cuttings for better rooting; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of dead or overcrowded stems; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or weak stems, and encourage flowering. Light pruning is generally sufficient.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune after flowering, remove dead stems, shape lightly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil mix, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, trim roots if needed, water lightly after repotting, place in suitable location.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting the foliage. Allow excess water to drain completely between sessions. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on humidity and rainfall.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to improve acidity and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud abortion in excessive heat; wilting or leaf necrosis in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, slow growth, and leaf discoloration, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot; move indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced flowering, especially if humidity is low.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, dilute properly, fertilize in growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThe berries of Lapageria rosea are toxic to cats and can induce severe gastrointestinal and systemic reactions. Cats may be more sensitive to the toxic compounds, necessitating prompt veterinary care if ingestion occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Lapageria rosea are toxic to dogs and can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects. The toxic compounds can lead to more severe symptoms compared to humans, potentially requiring veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lapageria rosea contain toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, though severe cases may require medical attention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Lapageria rosea?
A: Propagation is typically done via seed or stem cuttings, though seeds can be slow to germinate.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Lapageria rosea?
A: It thrives in partial shade, high humidity, and well-drained, acidic soil with consistent moisture.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Lapageria turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies; ensure proper soil conditions and moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Philesiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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