| Love orchids, but do not have the time or budget for exotic specimens and their finicky greenhouse requirements? Try the 'Poor Man's Orchid' in indoor pots, trailing from a hanging moss basket, or massed in an outdoor flowerbed. Like a flock of butterflies, the bright blossoms are marked with delicate patterns and have scalloped "tails". Some are even frost-hardy. Cut flowers are long-lasting. Strains have been developed in colors and heights to suit any situation. Give outdoor plants partial shade, especially in warm climates. Grow frost-hardy annuals from sown seed in spring. For late winter bloom and cut flowers, start plants in autumn so they are well established in a large enough pot. Water plentifully in spring and summer, sparingly in winter. Repot when rootbound to encourage blooming. Tall cultivars may need staking. Young plants are susceptible to aphids, wilt and root rot. Avoid mildew by providing good ventilation. |
This tiny wonder blooms in a range of colors. Vigorous, but keeps its neat, compact pyramidal shape.
|
Attributes - Schizanthus pinnatus 'Star Parade'
Plant Type: Annual
Bloom Season: Early Summer through Early Fall
Flower Color: Lavender, Pink, Purple, Red
Height: 1 ft. to 1 ft. 6 in.
Width: 1 ft. 6 in.
Sunlight: Partial Sun, Shade
Notes: Container Plants, Cut Flowers, Showy Flowers.
|