Chinese houses (Collinsia heterophylla)

Also known as: Purple chinese houses, Downy chinese-houses

The wildflower "Columbine," native to the Western United States, derives its common name from the Latin word "columba," which means "dove." The flower's unique petal shape is thought to resemble a group of doves in flight. Columbines are not only beautiful in gardens but also make excellent cut flowers for arrangements.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Chinese houses

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 50 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Approximately 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm)

Flower Color

White Purple Pink Violet

Images of Chinese houses

Quickly Identify Chinese houses

Identifiable by its bright purple and white flowers arranged in tiers or whorls, and lance-shaped leaves. The plants often grow in clusters.

Scientific Classification of Chinese houses

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Plantain

Genus

Blue eyed Marys

Species

Chinese houses

Planting and Growing of Chinese houses

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 10 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Chinese houses?

For Collinsia heterophylla, water until the top inch of soil feels damp but not soggy. The 250 ml should thoroughly moisten the soil without leaving standing water, providing just the right amount for healthy growth.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Chinese houses?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2 to 6 hours

Collinsia heterophylla prefers partial sun to full shade, allowing it to thrive with a few hours of morning light while avoiding strong direct afternoon sunlight, promoting lush, vivid blooms and healthy foliage.

Where should Collinsia heterophylla be placed ideally? ›

How to ensure Collinsia heterophylla gets ideal light indoors? ›

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More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Chinese houses?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for cultivating Collinsia heterophylla is between 60°F and 75°F. This range is conducive to healthy growth and flowering. Maintaining temperatures within this range ensures that the plant has optimal conditions for photosynthesis and nutrient absorption. Additionally, this temperature range minimizes the risk of stress and disease.

What Soil is Best for Chinese houses?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Collinsia heterophylla thrives in well-draining soils, which prevent waterlogging and root rot. This type of soil allows excess water to move away from the roots, ensuring they stay healthy and oxygenated. This plant benefits from a soil that is rich in organic matter. Such soils provide the necessary nutrients for robust growth and vibrant blooms, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant. Soils that can retain some moisture without becoming swampy are ideal. This balance ensures that Collinsia heterophylla receives the water it needs without suffocating the roots, fostering steady growth.

How to Fertilize Chinese houses?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Collinsia heterophylla, it's ideal to use a dilute liquid fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 during its growing season. Apply approximately 5 ml per liter of water to ensure proper nutrition without overwhelming the plant.

How to Prune Chinese houses?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by deadheading spent blooms to encourage new growth. Trim just above the next set of leaves to stimulate the plant's flowering potential. Shape the plant by cutting back any overgrown or unruly branches. This helps maintain a compact and attractive appearance and allows for a more balanced growth pattern. Prune to improve air circulation within the plant's structure. Remove any overcrowded or crossing branches to reduce the risk of mildew and increase light penetration to inner leaves. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Chinese houses plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Fill a seed tray with potting soil up to about three-quarters full, tamping down the soil to eliminate air pockets and provide a solid base for seed placement.

Scatter Collinsia heterophylla seeds evenly across the surface of the soil, ensuring they are spaced apart to prevent overcrowding which might hinder growth.

Lightly water the seeds, ensuring even moisture distribution before covering them with a thin layer of soil that gently protects them while allowing sunlight penetration.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Chinese houses plant?

Repotting frequency: Annually or biannually

Collinsia heterophylla, commonly known as Chinese Houses, shows its need for repotting when roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes or when the plant appears to be pot-bound. This typically happens in the early spring. Repotting during this time gives the plant enough time to adjust to its new container and soil before it starts its vigorous growth phase.

Selecting the right pot for Collinsia heterophylla is vital. Opt for a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring there is sufficient space for root expansion. The pot must have excellent drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, reducing the risk of root rot. Ceramic or terracotta pots are optimal as they offer breathability, which assists in moisture regulation.

Choosing the right soil for Collinsia heterophylla involves selecting a well-draining potting mix, enriched with organic matter to enhance nutrient availability. A lightweight, porous soil blend allowing for aeration supports root health and encourages robust plant growth. This type of soil prevents water stagnation and promotes effective oxygen circulation to the roots.