Pericallis cruenta aka Cineraria

Taxonomy

Genus Pericallis Family Asteraceae Order Asterales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Pericallis cruenta, also known as Senecio cruentus and Cineraria cruenta, is a non-woody flowering plant that is native to the Canary Islands, specifically La Gomera and Tenerife. It is commonly found growing in Tenerife's laurel forests. Pericallis cruenta is a parent plant of the popular garden flower, Pericallis × hybrida or the florist's cineraria, along with Pericallis lanata. However, there has been confusion and debate about the origin of Pericallis × hybrida, with Pericallis cruenta mistakenly referred to as a 'feral' form of the florist's cineraria. In 1895, there was a debate between William Turner Thiselton-Dyer and William Bateson about the origin of Cineraria cruenta, with Thiselton-Dyer arguing that it was derived from the wild plant Senecio cruentus, while Bateson argued it was of hybrid origin. The argument was resolved by Bateson, who conducted experimental crosses in 1897 and showed that the garden cineraria is indeed of hybrid origin. It was discovered that members of the Pericallis genus had been extensively hybridized by horticulturalists in England by the early 1800s. The florist's cineraria (Pericallis x hybrida) is a popular flowering plant that is sold in floral shops and other retailers during mid-winter to early spring. The plant produces clusters of daisy-like flowers that come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, lavender, purple, and blue, with many having white eyes. Pericallis cruenta is a rare houseplant that requires regular watering and abundant sunlight to thrive. It is best to keep it less than 3 feet away from a window and in well-draining soil. Repotting the plant each time it doubles in size should be sufficient, as it shouldn't require added fertilizers.

Common names

Cineraria

How to care for Cineraria

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Cineraria is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Cineraria should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Cineraria loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Cineraria requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Cineraria will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Cineraria should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

More info:
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More Species in Pericallis Genus

Pericallis Ragwort

Pericallis echinata Canary Rikka Banti

Pericallis hybrida Cineraria

Pericallis cruenta Cineraria

Pericallis lanata Senetti

Pericallis steetzii

Pericallis webbii