Triodanis perfoliata
Triodanis perfoliata · Campanulaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant triodanis perfoliata: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Campanulaceae
- Type
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Adult height
- 20 to 60 cm
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-July)
- Foliage
- Deciduous, light green
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, annual
- Origin
- North America
- Preferred soil
- Well-drained, light
Care
Sunlight
Specular perfoliate prefers full sun or partial shade. It thrives well in bright situations that promote abundant flowering. Avoid areas that are too dark, as these would slow its growth.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil slightly moist without waterlogging. Reduce watering during cooler or rainy periods. This annual plant appreciates moderate but well-drained moisture.
Soil
Use light, well-drained soil that is rather poor to moderately fertile. Specular perfoliate tolerates sandy or gravelly soils well. Effective drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing
A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring is plenty. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. An annual plant generally needs only one or two light feedings.
Pruning and pinching
No pruning is strictly necessary. Light pinching of the shoot tips at the young stage can promote branching and a bushier shape. Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period.
Pests and diseases
Specular perfoliate is generally robust against diseases. Stay vigilant against slugs and snails, particularly on young plants. Excess moisture can promote rot; maintain proper spacing and ensure good air circulation.
Did you know?
The name 'perfoliata' comes from its original leaves: in young plants, the clasping leaves seem to be pierced by the stem, hence the name 'perfoliate leaves'. This remarkable botanical characteristic fascinated 17th-century European botanists who discovered this North American plant.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Peach-leaved bellflowerCampanula persicifolia
- Clustered bellflowerCampanula glomerata
- Trailing bellflowerCampanula poscharskyana
- Dalmatian bellflowerCampanula portenschlagiana
- PānakenakeLobelia angulata
- Carpathian bellflowerCampanula carpatica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.