Overview:
Calandrinia ciliata (Ruíz & Pav.) DC. is a low growing, succulent plant originating from South America. It is commonly known as Redmaids, Rock Purslane, and Fringed Purslane. This plant has various medicinal values, and it is predominantly used for treating skin disorders, diarrhea, and fever. Calandrinia ciliata is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, container gardens, and flower beds owing to its stunning, bright pink flowers.
Appearance:
Calandrinia ciliata is a low spreading annual or perennial herb that grows up to 20 - 30 cm in height. Its leaves are small, linear to narrowly oblong or oblong-lanceolate that grow up to 3 cm long by 2 mm wide and are siliceous. The plant produces beautiful and delicate pink to deep reddish-crimson flowers that are about 1-2 cm across with luscious golden yellow anthers. The plant flowers from spring to autumn and attracts numerous pollinators, particularly butterflies and bees.
Origin:
Calandrinia ciliata (Ruíz & Pav.) DC. is native to Chile, Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina in South America. Its vibrant pink flowers, ornamental foliage, and adaptability to arid conditions have made it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes worldwide. It’s often known as a drought-resistant plant, and it is found commonly in rock gardens, slopes, and sandy soil regions in its native habitat.
Uses:
This plant has various medicinal properties, and it is mainly used for treating skin disorders. The sap of the plant is applied externally to the skin to improve the healing of wounds, boils, abscesses, and ulcers. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is used for fighting fever and diarrhea. Calandrinia ciliata is a remarkable plant used for agricultural and environmental purposes, such as soil stabilization, erosion control, and also as a green cover crop. In addition, its beautiful pink flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes and often found in rock gardens, flower beds, and container gardens.
Light Requirements
Calandrinia ciliata requires plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day to maintain its bright pink flowers and healthy growth. In areas with intense heat or high temperatures, some partial shade during the hottest part of the day can be beneficial.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is well adapted to a wide range of temperature conditions, and it can tolerate both extreme heat and cold. However, it grows best in warm conditions between 65-85°F or 18-29°C. Temperatures below 50°F or 10°C can put the plant into dormancy or cause damage to the leaves and stems. It is important to protect the plant from frost exposure.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Calandrinia ciliata is a well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH. It grows best in soils with good moisture-holding capacity but that does not retain excessive moisture and cause waterlogging. Incorporating organic matter into the soil at planting time can improve soil texture and fertility. This plant can tolerate dry soils but needs consistent moisture during its growing period.
Cultivation Methods for Calandrinia ciliata
Calandrinia ciliata is a native plant of South America, and it requires specific cultivation methods to thrive. The plant needs a location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is best grown in gardens with sandy or loamy soil and an adequate drainage system. The plant can also be grown in pots, but it requires frequent watering and fertilization.
Watering Needs
Calandrinia ciliata thrives in well-drained soil, and overwatering can lead to root rot. It is best to water the plant regularly but ensure that the soil is dry before watering again. During the growing season, the plant requires watering once or twice a week, depending on the humidity and temperature. In contrast, during the dormant stage, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
The plant requires fertilizer application during the growing season to enhance strong growth and blooming. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, and repeat once a month until the end of the growing period. Alternatively, organic fertilizers like compost can be used to provide the plant with adequate nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning Calandrinia ciliata is essential to encourage healthy growth and prevent the plant from sprawling. Pruning should be done after the blooming period is over by cutting the stems back to the base. This will promote more flowers for the following year. Deadheading the spent flowers helps reduce the plant's energy output and directs it towards new growth and blooming.
Propagation methods for Calandrinia ciliata
There are several methods for propagating Calandrinia ciliata, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
The most common method for propagating Calandrinia ciliata is through seed propagation. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, preferably a mix of sand and peat moss. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until they germinate. Germination typically takes around 10-14 days, and once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Stem cuttings
Calandrinia ciliata can also be propagated via stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Select a healthy stem and cut a 3-4 inch section just below a node. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist, but not wet. Within a few weeks, new roots should begin to develop, and the cutting can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Division
Finally, Calandrinia ciliata can be propagated through division, although this is not commonly done. To divide the plant, carefully dig up the mature plant and separate the root ball into several sections. Each section should have a few healthy stems and roots. Replant each section in well-draining soil and keep it moist until it becomes established.
Disease Management
Calandrinia ciliata is susceptible to various types of fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew is the most common disease affecting this plant. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, and it can stunt growth and reduce yields.
To manage fungal diseases, it is advisable to practice good cultural practices, such as pruning infected plant parts and removing plant debris. Fungicides can be applied as a preventative measure; however, it is important to follow label instructions and apply them before the onset of symptoms.
Pest Management
Calandrinia ciliata is not known to attract many pests. However, it can be affected by spider mites, which are small pests that suck sap from the leaves. Spider mites can reproduce quickly and cause significant damage.
To manage spider mites, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene by regularly removing plant debris and weeds. Infested plants can be washed off with a stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap. Natural predators, such as ladybugs, can also be introduced to the area.
