Scientific Name
Cistanthe grandiflora (Lindl.) Schltdl.
Synonym(s)
Calandrinia grandiflora, Calandrinia spectabilis, Claytonia grandiflora, Talinum grandiflorum
Common Name(s)
Rock Purslane
Scientific Classification
Family: Montiaceae
Genus: Cistanthe
Origin
Cistanthe grandiflora is native to Chile.
Description
Cistanthe grandiflora, formerly known as Calandrinia grandiflora or Calandrinia spectabilis, is a spectacular, shrubby succulent with blue-green, diamond-shaped leaves. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The fleshy leaves have soft hair and smooth margins.
The flowers are poppy-shaped, bright magenta, and rise above the foliage on stalks up to 2 feet (60 cm) long. Flower production starts in spring and continues through fall.
How to Grow and Care for Cistanthe grandiflora
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b: from 10°F (-12.2°C) to 40°F (4.4°C).
Calandrinias are very easy to care for as they can tolerate prolonged dry periods. They do not like too much water, especially in the winter. Plants can grow as short-lived perennials in warm regions, but should be grown as annuals elsewhere. Propagate by taking cuttings or allowing plants to self-seed in situ.
If you plan to grow outdoors from seed, then Calandrinia species should be sown at a depth of 0.1 inches (3 mm) after the last frost of spring. If you prefer to start Calandrinia as seeds indoors, start them about eight weeks before they are due to be put out.
Grow them at 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C); they take 1 to 2 weeks to germinate. Plant Calandrinia seedlings at about 8 inches (20 cm) apart, after the last spring frost, in an area that gets plenty of sunlight and in gritty or sandy soil.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Calandrinia.
Links
- Back to genus Cistanthe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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