code: 1009
It is probably the brightest and most impressive of all of the South American species
Family: Solanaceae
Common name: Little Mountain Butterfly, Schizanthus grahami var. coccinea
Plant Classification: Half hardy annual
Minimum Height: 30 cm
Maximum Height: 45 cm
Packet Content(approx.): 10
From the Chilean Andes comes this exquisite flower which opens its unusual red and gold flowers above deeply divided leaves, between late spring to late autumn. It is probably the brightest and most impressive of all of the South American species. Although they are short-lived perenials in the wild, they are best grown as annuals in cooler climates when they will thrive even in hot and dry spots in the garden.
Sowing advice:
For best results, seeds are sown directly into the ground where required in the spring. Alternatively, sow in late winter/early spring in gentle warmth, 15-20 degrees C. Prick out into small 3″ pots and plant in final position when the plants are established.
Information:
Life Cycle: Half hardy annual. Hardy biennial.
Height: 16 to 40 inches (40 to 100 cm).
Native: South America.
Growing Region: Zones 1 to 10.
Flowers: Spring, summer and/or autumn.
Flower Details: Red, yellow, white, pink, purple. Multicoloured. Speckled. Blotched. Orchid-like.
Foliage: Lobed. Fern-like.
Sow Outside: 1/8 inch. In warm areas sow seeds every two weeks from early spring until mid-spring, and in the autumn. In cooler areas start seeds indoors. Spacing 10 to 30 inches (25 to 75 cm).
Sow Inside: Germination time: one to three weeks. Temperature 65 to 70°F (18 to 21°C). Two months before expected last frost. Transplant outdoors a couple of weeks after the last frost; temperatures should not drop below 41°F (5°C).
Requirements: Full sunlight. Soil pH 6 to 7. Good drainage. Loam. Fertile soil. Regular light watering; avoid getting plant wet. Provide support. Pinch tips twice, once when the plant reaches about three inches (8 cm) and again at six inches (15 cm).
Family: Solanaceae.
Miscellaneous: The common name for members of the Schizanthus genus is given because the flowers have a butterfly-like look.
HABITAT
In Chile this species grows in the following environmental conditions:
Habitat according to altitude:
High altitude close to the timber line
Watering conditions:
Somewhat dry areas where the drought may last 3 – 5 months. Precipitations of 400 – 800 mm. are concentrated in winter.
Light conditions:
Fully exposed to the sun. Level areas or slopes facing north.
