Pericallis cruenta or Senecio cruentus is a flowering perennial commonly known as Cineraria. This plant is a tender perennial but is usually cultivated as an annual or seasonal houseplant. It features a mound-forming growth habit with large deep green leaves. Cineraria is widely appreciated for its vivid spring flowers that bloom in a wide range of colors, such as pink, red, blue, purple, and bi-colors. These long-lasting blossoms are ideal for in-ground bedding and containers.
How to keep Senecio Cruentus.
Water
Water your Cineraria thoroughly and frequently, especially during the hotter seasons, to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. You want to focus on the base of the plant only to deter root and crown rot.
Temperature
Cineraria grows best in ideal temperatures between 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It is quite temperamental when it comes to temperatures. This plant will likely die if it drops below 35 degrees Fahrenheit and stops blooming if it’s exposed to weather over 80 degrees. Cineraria thrives in humid environments with good air circulation.
Fertilizer
Feed your Cineraria with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength. You can start fertilizing it once flower buds emerge and continue feeding a dose every 2 weeks. Light but frequent feeding is essential for the best flowering.
Pruning
Deadhead blooms to encourage continual flowering and maintain a neat plant. After the blooming season, Cineraria is usually pulled up and replaced with flowering summer annuals.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tender perennial
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Bloom Time
- Spring
- Native Area
- Azores, Canary Islands
