Pericallis x hybrida, Senecio cruentus, Senecio x hybrida

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Pericallis x hybrida (Florist's Cineraria) is a small shrub, typically growing to a height up to 2 feet, native to the Canary Islands. Notable for its deep green foliage and stunning multi-hued blooms, this showy plant produces a bouquet of bright flowers in pink, purple, blue, and pastel shades. Many of the blooms also flouresce and some are bi-colored. The blooms measure 2 inches in diameter and appear in profusion from spring to early fall.

To cultivate a steady bloom of vibrant blooms, regular watering and a light application of fertilizer at the start of the growing season are necessary. Pericallis x hybrida can be grown in both gardens and planters, making it suitable for a variety of needs. For gardeners living in colder climates, it can be grown in containers that are brought indoors over the winter. When planting, cover the container with 1 to 2 inches of a moisture-retaining material such as bark or straw, and cut back the plants after flowering.

Although Pericallis x hybrida is ethno-medicinally beneficial, caution is advised when growing it as the plant can be considered invasive in some parts of the United States. Therefore, avoid allowing the plant to spread to natural areas. Seeds sown in early spring will take about 4 months to produce a colorful crop of blooms, with plants typically discarded after flowering is finished.

Similar plants:

• Curio articulatus, Senecio articulatus, Kleinia articulata (Hot Dog Cactus, Candle Plant)
• Curio herreanus, Senecio herreianus (Gooseberry, String of Beads)
• Curio rowleyanus, Senecio rowleyanus (String of pearls, String of peas, Bead Plant)
• Curio x peregrinus, Senecio x peregrinus (Dolphin Necklace, Flying Dolphins, Senecio Hippogriff)
• Kleinia neriifolia, Senecio kleinia (Verode)
• Kleinia pendula, Senecio pendulus (Tapeworm Plant)
• Kleinia stapeliiformis, Senecio stapeliiformis (Pickle Plant)
• Pseudogynoxys chenopodioides, Senecio confusus (Mexican Flame Vine, Orangeglow Vine)
• Roldana petasitis, Senecio petasitis (Velvet Groundsel, California Geranium)
• Senecio angulatus (Creeping Groundsel)