False parasol
Comandra umbellata · Comandraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant false parasol: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Spring (April-May)
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -30°C)
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light to calcareous soil
Care
Light exposure
Comandra prefers a sunny to partly shaded location. It does well in bright spots with a few hours of direct sun. Avoid deep shade, which would slow its growth.
Soil
Plant it in a well-drained substrate, rather light and not too rich. It tolerates calcareous and rocky soils well. Adding sand or gravel facilitates drainage if your soil is heavy.
Watering
Water moderately, especially during its spring growth phase. Once established, comandra tolerates dry periods well. Avoid excess moisture, which could cause root rot.
Fertilizer
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. This plant isn't demanding and thrives even in poor soil. Excess fertilizer would favor foliage at the expense of blooms.
Pruning and cleanup
Little pruning is necessary. Simply remove dead or misplaced stems in late winter. A light cleanup after flowering maintains a compact shape and encourages better branching.
Diseases and pests
Very robust, comandra is rarely affected by disease. Well-drained soil prevents root rot. In healthy growing conditions, little intervention is needed.
Did you know?
Richards' comandra is a discreet hemiparasitic plant: its roots attach to the roots of other plants to draw some of their nutrients, while still carrying out photosynthesis itself. This clever adaptation makes it an interesting companion in rocky or wild settings, where it naturally integrates into North American ecosystems.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.