Pericallis x hybrida, Senecio cruentus, Senecio x hybrida

Pericallis x hybrida (Florist's Cineraria) is a small shrub, typically growing to a height of 2-5 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.

Perovskia sp.

Perovskia grows as a many stemmed clump with flower panicles at the ends of each stem. The foliage is finely cut gray-green leaves that are slightly scented.

Petrea arborea

Petrea arborea, commonly known as Blue Jasmine, is a large shrub that can grow to a height of between five and ten feet. It is native to tropical America and is grown in USDA zones 9 to 11. Blue Jasmine is a delightful and attractive flowering shrub that will brighten up any outdoor space.

This shrub requires little maintenance but will require moderate watering during dry periods. It loves full sun and should have consistent access to plenty of bright, direct sunlight. If planted in an area with too little sun, Blue Jasmine may become less vigorous and the flowers may not be as plentiful and vivid.

When given the right care, Blue Jasmine will put on a spectacular show of bluish-plum flowers in the late winter. These blooms also come in lavender and purple shades that will attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

When growing Blue Jasmine in areas where it is not hardy or in a contained environment, such as a pot, it is important to provide extra protections during the winter. This shrub can thrive in colder regions but will require extra perseverance. Maintaining the right soil type is essential. It needs a well-draining, slightly acidic soil and will also require additional protection in the winter and supplemental watering. Mulching is highly recommended, as this will help insulate the root system and will also help the soil stay moist.

Overall, Petrea arborea is a beautiful and hardy shrub that will bring a burst of life to any outdoor space. With the right care and attention, it will reward you with stunning blooms every year.

Petrea volubilis, Petrea kohautiana, Petrea racemosa

A twining vine with rough green leaves and spectacular tall clusters of purple flowers. It likes warm and humid conditions. The flowers come in raceme reaching over 1 foot long, the flowers lasts a couple of days but the blue calices remain much longer, slowly turning gray.

See Article about Petrea.

Petrocosmea sp.

Petrocosmea plants thrive in full sun or semi-shade, and they require moderate to regular water. Depending on the season, some species may require more water than others. The foliage of these plants ranges from green to silver, with tinges of purple or yellow. The shape of the leaves may range from triangular to heart-shaped, depending on the species. Petrocosmea plants are adorned with clusters of white, off-white and blue, lavender and purple flowers during the spring and summer months.

When caring for Petrocosmea in a pot, be sure to keep it in moist soil and out of direct sunlight, especially if you live in a cold region. If you are bringing them indoors during colder months, put them in a bright window to get plenty of indirect light.

Petrocosmea plants are usually easy to care for and can tolerate temperature fluctuations. However, they can be prone to scale and spider mites and should be inspected regularly. Cut off dead foliage and trim away any infected leaves as needed. Fertilize with a liquid fertilizer a few times during the growing season. Petrocosmea plants are normally a low-maintenance species that can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors with minimal effort for many years.