Looking for a springtime crowd-pleaser? Then check out Cineraria, a dazzling relative of the daisy! Known as the “first flower of spring”, Cineraria truly lives up to its reputation. Whether it’s a cheerful centerpiece or thoughtful hostess gift, Cineraria won’t disappoint.
Cineraria symbolizes delight!
Blooming from mid-January through late May in vivid shades of cobalt blue, amethyst, ruby, and coral, it’s no surprise Cineraria symbolizes delight! It will add a much needed touch of indoor color for anyone anxious for an early spring. Cineraria also makes a great outdoor accent in window boxes and containers once the weather warms above 50 degrees and before the summer heat sets in. Try pairing it with other spring favorites like pansies, daffodils, and tulips.
If you’re lucky enough to live in a mild region, Cineraria can be grown outside as a perennial bedding plant, reseeding itself each year for a naturalized look. It looks great in garden beds and containers when paired with ferns, hosta, or other shade tolerant plants.
History
Cineraria is a hybrid of two pericallis species native to the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands (Pericallis cruenta and Pericallis lanata). It thrives on the cool ocean cliffs that overlook the Atlantic ocean. First developed by the British Royal Gardens in 1777, Cineraria is a member of the Aster family (Asteraceae), closely related to ageratum, gerbera daisies, straw flowers, and sunflowers.
Basic Care
Cineraria likes moderation in terms of light, water, temperature, and humidity. With the right amount of each, you’re sure to see spectacular blooms from these prolific plants.
In mild climates like coastal California, Cineraria is an outdoor garden favorite
Light: Cineraria is sensitive to glaring light and does best indoors in a window that gets bright but indirect sunlight. Outdoors it prefers partial to full shade.
Water: Cineraria like moist soil, but don’t overdo it! Be careful not to saturate the soil or let your plant sit in standing water – but also make sure not to let the soil dry out either! For best results, soak your Cineraria in the sink and let the excess water drain out completely. If your plant came in a decorative cover, remove it before soaking and replace it once the pot fully drains.
Temperature: Cineraria is a tender perennial that thrives in cool temperatures, ideally between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Under optimum conditions, Cineraria will flower for up to 3 full weeks. Warmer conditions will shorten the flower life of individual blossoms and may keep buds from opening.
Humidity: Cineraria is very sensitive to high humidity. It is generally satisfied with dry indoor air and doesn’t need to be misted.
Cineraria pairs pefectly with other spring flowers like daffodils
Make the most of your blooms by deadheading spent flowers to encourage new buds to form. After 3-4 weeks, your Cineraria should grow back in their full extravagance! It’s an easy process, with incredibly rewarding results.
Troubleshooting
If your Cineraria’s leaves are pale and limp, it is getting too much sun – simply move it to a new spot where the light isn’t as strong.
If your plant is withering or not blooming fully, moisture may be a factor. Check the soil to see if it is too dry or too wet – both will cause the plant to wilt. If humidity is too high, try to move your plant to a dryer area of your home. Humidity can affect blooms and cause Cineraria to wither early.