Overview
Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause is a beautiful wildflower native to California and Oregon. Its vibrant display of color and charming appearance make it a popular choice among gardeners who wish to attract pollinators and add visual interest to their gardens.
Common Names
The plant goes by several common names, including Blue-eyed Mary, Large-flowered Blue-eyed Mary, Grand Collomia, Elegant Collomia, and Maiden Blue-eyed Mary.
Appearance
The Blue-eyed Mary plant is a slender and graceful herb that grows to a height of one to three feet. It has long, narrow leaves that are opposite each other and arranged in a way that gives the plant an overall elegant appearance. The bright blue to violet flowers bloom in clusters at the top of the stems. Each flower has five petals, with a white center and a yellow stamen. The blooms of Collinsia parviflora occur from April to July.
Uses
Blue-eyed Mary flowers are an important nectar source for butterflies, bees, moths, and hummingbirds. They also attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests, making it a valuable addition to gardens. Additionally, the plant's leaves can be used to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections and stomach issues.
Growth Conditions for Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause
Light: Collinsia parviflora Lind. var. grandiflora requires full sun to partial shade. It prefers light to moderate shade in hot summer temperatures.
Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora lies between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24C). It is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, from near freezing to over 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil: Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy soils and clay soils. The soil pH should range between neutral (pH 7) to slightly acidic (pH 6).
Moisture: Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora prefers moist soil. It needs consistent watering during the growing season to perform well. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so it is essential to maintain proper drainage.
Fertilizer: Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora does not require much fertilizer if grown in fertile soil. However, applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help boost growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause is a delicate, small-sized plant that grows best in cool climates. It is an annual plant that has a blooming period of two months, starting from March and ending in May. The cultivation techniques of this plant vary depending on the region you live. In general, it is advised to plant it in early spring, in a fertile soil that is well-draining.
The plant prefers partial shade or full sun exposure, depending on the summer climate. Areas with hot summers should plant it in partial shade, while cooler areas can grow them under full sun as it promotes blooming and vibrance. s
Watering Needs
Regular watering is critical for Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause. Ensure the soil remains moist, but not soggy. Over-watering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. The soil should be allowed to dry between watering, with a frequency of watering equal to every three to four days.
During the rainy season, it is recommended to check the drainage systems. Ensure that the plant does not experience excessive moisture, as this can lead to fungal diseases, which can cause harm to the plant.
Fertilization
Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause is a low-maintenance plant that requires little fertilization. It is best to fertilize the plant once or twice during the growing season. Use a complete fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10, and apply it as per the instructions on the label.
Over-fertilizing can lead to lanky growth and fewer flowers. Therefore, you must avoid excessive fertilization.
Pruning
The pruning techniques of Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause are quite simple. You can pinch the stems and deadhead the old blooms to promote new flower growth. By doing so, the plants will remain healthy and vibrant throughout the blooming period.
Pruning should take place once the blooming period is over. You should cut the stems down to 4-6 inches above ground level, as this will prevent the plant from reseeding and becoming an invasive species. Additionally, it will prepare the area for next year's planting.
Propagation of Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause
Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause can be propagated easily through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the simplest and most common method for Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause. When the flowers wilt, they produce seed pods. Wait for the seeds to mature and turn slightly yellowish-brown before collecting them. Once collected, keep the seeds in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.
Sow the seeds in the fall for spring blooming or in early spring for summer blooming. Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil, instead gently press them into it. Keep the soil moist and in a shaded area until the seeds sprout. Once they have sprouted, you can transplant them to a sunnier spot in your garden.
Division Propagation
Division is another way of propagating Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause. This method requires you to dig up the plant's roots and divide them into smaller sections, each with its own set of leaves and stems. You can then replant each section in a new location.
The best time to divide Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause is during the dormant season in early spring or fall. Before planting, ensure that each section has enough soil, moisture, and sun exposure for growth. This method works best for mature plants that have been growing for at least three years.
Cuttings Propagation
You can also propagate Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in moist soil. Select healthy stems with at least two sets of leaves; the lower leaves should be removed before planting. Dip the cuttings into rooting hormone and then plant them in a moist, well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location until the cuttings have rooted.
Propagation through cuttings is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. If done correctly, this method can often produce new plants within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause is generally disease-resistant. However, some diseases can still affect the plant, including:
- Leaf spot: This disease is characterized by the appearance of dark or brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to remove and destroy affected leaves. The plant should also be watered from below to avoid wetting the foliage.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is advisable to remove affected leaves and increase air circulation around the plant. Applying a fungicide can also help in severe cases.
Pest Management
Collinsia parviflora Lindl. var. grandiflora (Lindl.) Ganders & Krause is susceptible to some common pests such as:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause stunting and distortion of the plant. To manage aphids, it is advisable to use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the pests.
- Spider mites: These pests are known to cause severe damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to regularly spray the plant with water to create a humid environment, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant are essential to detect any signs of disease or pests early on. Proper cultural practices such as maintaining good hygiene and providing adequate nutrients and water can also help in preventing infections and infestations.
