Japanese name: ペリカリス Scientific name:Pericallis hybrida
[Overview]
A perennial 40–60 cm tall.
It is weak in heat and humidity, so in Japan it is treated as an annual.
The stem is erect.
The leaves are simple and alternate, with long leaf stalks, angular heart-shaped ovate, with fine teeth on the margins.
The veins are palmate.
The leaf stalks have wings, but the stalks of the basal leaves do not.
Short corymbs are produced at the stem tips, bearing so many flowers that they cover the plant.
[Cultivation]
Propagate from seed and by stem cuttings.
It prefers a place that is well drained, retains water well and is rich in organic matter.
From autumn to spring, place it in a sunny spot out of the frost, and if possible keep the temperature at 5°C or above.
It is weak in heat and often dies in summer, but when grown as a perennial, place it in airy partial shade in summer and take care that it does not become stuffy.
If ventilation is poor, pests and diseases occur more easily.
For potted plants, water thoroughly when the soil surface dries.
Apply slow-release fertilizer and liquid fertilizer regularly.
Spent flowers can cause disease, so remove them promptly.
Pests and diseases include gray mold and powdery mildew.
