Savannah false pimpernel
Lindernia grandiflora · Linderniaceae
📷 Renjusplace · CC BY-SA 3.0
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant savannah false pimpernel: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Linderniaceae
- Type
- Annual or tender perennial herb
- Adult height
- Approximately 30 cm
- Flowering
- July to August
- Exposure
- Partial shade ideal
- Water requirement
- High, moist environment
- Foliage
- Deciduous or semi-persistent depending on climate
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical Asian zones
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability low.
Expert tips
The key tip
Lindernia grandiflora is cultivated as a semi-submerged aquatic plant. Plant it in a perforated pot in 5-10 cm of water with bright light.
The common mistake
Growing it in a regular pot with occasional watering: it yellows within a week.
The pro's trick
Enrich the water with a heavily diluted aquatic fertilizer; this stimulates continuous flowering from July to August.
Seasonal watch
In winter, below 5°C, it nearly disappears; maintain a minimum of 12-15°C and keep water level stable.
Care
Watering
Large-flowered Lindernia requires constantly moist substrate without being waterlogged. Water regularly, increasing frequency in hot weather or in a heated indoor space. Place it near a saucer filled with water or in a perforated pot to maintain air and soil humidity. Prefer rainwater or demineralized water.
Light exposure
This plant prefers partial shade with sufficient indirect light to promote flowering. Avoid intense direct sun which can dry out the foliage. Indoors, place it near an east or north-facing window. Light afternoon shade is beneficial in very hot climates.
Substrate and soil
Use rich, aerated and well-draining potting soil, mixed with blonde peat or coco fiber to increase moisture retention. A slight addition of perlite or clay balls improves root aeration. Neutral to slightly acidic pH works well. The presence of organic matter is important.
Fertilizer and nutrition
Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 15 days during the growth and flowering period (April to September). Reduce applications in winter. Favor a fertilizer slightly rich in potassium to support flowering. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Perform light pruning in late winter to maintain a compact and dense shape. Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous flowering. Eliminate stems that grow excessively. Pruning after flowering rejuvenates the plant and prepares it for the next season.
Pests and diseases
Watch for whiteflies, spider mites or aphids, favored by dry air. Powdery mildew can develop in stagnant humidity conditions. Avoid overly confined environments and ensure good air circulation. Treat early with natural solutions or black soap in case of infestation.
Did you know?
Large-flowered Lindernia is a small herb often overlooked by French gardeners, yet it offers delicate pale pink or violet flowers throughout the summer in humid climates. Its genus Lindernia honors the German botanist from the 1700s. This plant thrives particularly in humid tropical zones and is an excellent choice for terrariums or vivariums, where it creates miniature landscapes of great delicacy.
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.