What is Calceolaria?

Calceolaria is a plant of the shrub type SCROPHULARIACEAE with flowers that are shaped as the tip of slippers or wallet. Due to the shape of the flowers is also known as the name Popeatbook grew or Slipper Plant. The Calceolaria family covers a large group of soft strains plants, which differ very much in height-mowing to be as high as 3 feet (1 meter) or short as 6 inches (15 cm). The color of flowers is usually orange or yellow, although newer hybrids are sometimes multicolored. In general, it is very difficult to grow and cultivate these plants outdoors, and for this reason Calceolaria is primarily in greenhouses or on the estates of the rich to hire a full -time gardener.

Calceolaria is annual, which means that it is generally planted every year. In some cases with almost perfect weather conditions, seedlings can return independently without planting, but this is rare. Throughout the roller cycle, this plant needs constant attention because it cannot psolve excessive warmth, frost or sun. Plants come from South America, although today they can be found in gardens and greenhouses in North America and Europe.

These tropical flowers cannot survive temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius), so outdoor planting should be carried out in April or May, when all the risk of frost passed. Moist soil with optimal drainage and location that accepts at least partial sun is generally necessary for a healthy and prosperous plant. If Calceolaria was grown inside or in a greenhouse, the soil mixture of humus and clay should be used in general and new plants should be placed in an area that receives good ventilation. According to most experts, the fertilizer should not be used until the established root system is available.

pests who often attack spiders, molks and aphids. Spiders mites are pic-Low moisture, so maintaining wet plants is one means of prevention. The molite often leaves a black sponge on the plant, so their contamination is quite easy to detect and can be eliminated by pesticides. Aphids are usually not as harmful to Calceolaria as spider mites and pierces and can also be controlled by pesticides.

In South America, studies are currently underway to determine whether there is a healing value for the race. Some scientists believe that they may contain properties that are beneficial for digestion and stomach irritation. There is also a hint that it can offer antibacterial protection.