Dorothy Slipperwort
calceolaria uniflora
Also known as: ["Andean Pocketbook","Uniflower Pocketbook"]
Overview
A unique flowering plant native to South America, known for its distinctive slipper-shaped flowers in white, pink, and yellow.
Benefits & Perks
["unique flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Calceolariaceae |
| Genus: | Calceolaria |
| Botanical Name: | Calceolaria uniflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, cool room with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix such as peat-based with perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; occasional shaping as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; protect from harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; avoid sudden exposure to intense sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or north window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with dappled sunlight
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite
pH: Slightly acidic, ideally 5.5–6.5.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain slightly moist but not waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid temperature fluctuations; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer, with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or a specialized cutting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) with drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure good drainage with a layer of gravel at the bottom.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting the leaves. Allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration.
Solution: Protect from drafts and cold windows; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C); use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate ventilation; move to a cooler location if needed.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Calceolaria uniflora. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort and irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Calceolaria uniflora can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCalceolaria uniflora contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitive skin or digestive systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Calceolaria uniflora?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Calceolaria uniflora require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight to avoid leaf burn.
Q: Is Calceolaria uniflora toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Calceolariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade with dappled sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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