Most people only know the slipper flower (Calceolaria) as a very short-lived plant that dies within a few weeks. However, among the approximately 300 different species there are also perennials and even woody specimens - depending on the purpose for which you want to use the pretty flowering plant.
How do you properly care for a slipper flower?
The slipper flower (Calceolaria) prefers a partially shaded to shady, cool location with loose, permeable, nutrient-rich and slightly acidic soil. Water regularly, avoid waterlogging and fertilize every one to two weeks. Remove wilted flowers and take cuttings for propagation.
Which location does the slipper flower prefer?
Slipper flowers are ideal if you want to plant a (lightly) shady to partially shady balcony or bring some color into a rather dark apartment. The plants prefer a partially shaded to shady location and do not do well with too much direct sun. In addition, the location should be cool rather than warm.
What substrate does the slipper flower need?
Ideal is a loose, very permeable and nutrient-rich (humus-rich) soil with a high proportion of gravel or sand, although this should also be slightly acidic and low in lime.
For which cultivation is the slipper flower particularly suitable?
For indoor cultivation, annual Calceolaria hybrids are usually used, which bloom on the windowsill throughout the winter and ultimately die after the flowering period. For cultivation on the balcony or garden, however, various perennial, sometimes even winter-hardy species can be considered:
- Calceolaria arachnoidea
- Calceolaria cavanillesii
- Calceolaria biflora
- Calceolaria falklandica
How should you water the slipper flower?
Slipper flowers require a lot of water and must not dry out. Therefore, water the plants regularly, but avoid waterlogging.
Should you fertilize the slipper flower?
For potted plants, a (rather weak) fertilization with a liquid flower fertilizer (€12.00 on Amazon), which is carried out approximately every one to two weeks, is suitable. Planted specimens are content with organic fertilizer, such as compost.
Do you have to cut slipper flowers?
Pruning is not necessary, only dead flowers should be removed regularly.
How to propagate the slipper flower?
Slipper flowers can be propagated by sowing or cuttings, perennials can sometimes also be propagated by division. Cuttings are cut in autumn, after flowering, and overwintered.
Which diseases/pests commonly occur in the slipper flower?
Unfortunately, slipper flowers cultivated as houseplants are particularly susceptible to infestation by aphids, whiteflies and spider mites.
Is it worth overwintering slipper flowers?
Perennial slipper flowers are best overwintered frost-free, but cool and bright. Hardy varieties can remain outdoors if provided with winter protection.
Tip
Slipper flowers cultivated as houseplants usually only live for about six to eight weeks. So make sure you get supplies in good time by always pulling new cuttings.