Scarlet gilia, Skyrocket

ipomopsis aggregata

Also known as: ["Scarlet gilia","Skyrocket"]

Family: Polemoniaceae Genus: Ipomopsis Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial wildflower native to western North America, known for its vibrant red, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Polemoniales
Family: Polemoniaceae
Genus: Ipomopsis
Botanical Name: Ipomopsis aggregata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or open meadows with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Wildlife Supporters Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.

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 for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.

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 or loamy soil with low fertility

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

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

Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

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

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; establishment takes 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadheading and selective stem trimming.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy stems to maintain shape.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune after flowering; remove only dead or overgrown parts.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

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

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
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 pH balance.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; may experience leaf damage or dieback in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in winter; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Ipomopsis aggregata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease. It can reduce photosynthetic efficiency, leading to weakened growth and reduced flowering.

Wilting in Ipomopsis aggregata is often due to water stress, either from drought or overwatering. Prolonged wilting can lead to plant death if not addressed promptly.

Leaf spots on Ipomopsis aggregata are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens. These spots can reduce photosynthetic area, leading to weakened plants and potentially reduced flowering.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Ipomopsis aggregata due to excessive moisture or fungal infections. This can lead to plant decline and death if the affected parts are not removed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Ipomopsis aggregata is not known to pose a toxic risk to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for typical interactions with this plant around cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Ipomopsis aggregata is not known to pose a toxic risk to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for typical interactions with this plant around dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Ipomopsis aggregata 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

No specific safety precautions are necessary for typical interactions with this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Ipomopsis aggregata attract hummingbirds?

A: Yes, its tubular flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds.

Q: Is this plant drought-tolerant?

A: Yes, it is well-adapted to dry conditions and does not require frequent watering once established.

Q: Can Ipomopsis aggregata be grown in containers?

A: While possible, it thrives best in garden beds due to its preference for open, airy conditions.

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