Lapageria rosea aka Chilean Bellflower

Taxonomy

Lapageria rosea, also known as the Chilean bellflower or copihue, is a unique flowering plant that is native to the forests of southern Chile. It is the only species in the Lapageria genus and holds the honor of being the national flower of Chile. This medium-sized, evergreen climber boasts leathery, ovate green leaves and slender, waxy, hanging flowers. These bell-shaped blooms are a delicate pale pink and can reach impressive lengths of up to 7.5cm. While this variety may have a longer flowering time compared to others, it is known for its resilience and abundant blossoms. The Lapageria rosea is characterized by its thin, branching stems that can grow up to two meters in height. The dark green, ovate leaves are evergreen, thick, and leathery. This climbing shrub truly shines during late spring to early autumn when it produces numerous large flowers. These elongated trumpet-shaped blooms hang gracefully, measuring about 3-3.9 inches in length. The rosy lapageria showcases a stunning color palette, with flowers appearing in shades of red, white, and vibrant pink. Additionally, there are hybrid varieties available, some even displaying mottled patterns on their petals. The flowers of this plant are waxy and thick, and they give way to small, rounded fruits that are edible and have a sweetish flavor.

Common names

Chilean Bellflower, Chile Bells

How to care for Chilean Bellflower

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Chilean Bellflower due to its easy-going nature.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Chilean Bellflower prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Chilean Bellflower to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Chilean Bellflower’s native range is S. America - Argentina, Chile.


More info:
Wikipedia