Cineraria (Pericallis hybrida)

Also known as: Florist's cineraria

Cineraria (Pericallis hybrida) is a perennial that flourishes in cool, humid environments. It's often grown indoors due to its high maintenance needs. Provide bright but indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight. Use rich, well-draining soil and keep it consistently moist without overwatering to prevent root rot. Ensure the foliage remains dry when watering. High humidity levels support optimal growth, and maintaining moderate soil moisture is key to vibrant flower production.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Cineraria

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 80 cm

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

White Pink Purple Blue Red Lavender

Images of Cineraria

Quickly Identify Cineraria

Pericallis hybrida can be identified by its daisy-like flowers which have vivid colors, including purple, pink, blue, and white. The leaves are heart-shaped with toothed edges.

Scientific Classification of Cineraria

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Family

Daisy

Genus

Pericallis

Species

Cineraria

Planting and Growing of Cineraria

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

8-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

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

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Cineraria?

When watering Pericallis hybrida, it is crucial to ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly until the excess begins to drain from the bottom of the pot, ensuring that the water reaches the roots without causing oversaturation.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cineraria? ›

What should I do if my Cineraria is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cineraria? ›

How to save an overwatered Cineraria? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cineraria?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 3-6 hours daily

Pericallis hybrida needs partial sun exposure, receiving two to six hours daily. This ensures vibrant blooms and prevents stress, supporting healthy foliage and encouraging consistent flowering.

How much light does Pericallis hybrida need? ›

How to achieve ideal lighting for Pericallis hybrida? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Pericallis hybrida? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cineraria?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for Pericallis hybrida cultivation is between 60°F to 70°F. This range is optimal because it allows the plant to grow robustly without stress-induced effects. Within this range, the plant can efficiently carry out photosynthesis, supporting its vibrant flowering and healthy foliage.

What Soil is Best for Cineraria?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Pericallis hybrida thrives in soil with excellent drainage. Well-drained soil prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other diseases, ensuring healthier growth and more vibrant blooms. This plant requires nutrient-rich soil to support its growth and floral display. Enriched soils with organic matter provide essential nutrients, boosting the plant's resilience and flowering capabilities. While good drainage is crucial, the soil should also retain moderate moisture. This balance helps maintain consistent hydration without overwatering, promoting optimal growth conditions. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Cineraria?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Pericallis hybrida, it's crucial to provide the right amount of nutrients. During its active growth period, a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer at a rate of 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water per application is ideal. This ensures the plant receives adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for vibrant blooms and robust foliage without overburdening the root system. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Cineraria?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Always opt for sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid tearing and infections on the plant. Disinfect tools with alcohol before and after use to maintain plant health and prevent the spread of any potential diseases. Be mindful of the timing when pruning; though Pericallis hybrida can be pruned year-round, doing so in the early morning or late afternoon is best when temperatures are cooler. This prevents stress and potential wilt during the hottest part of the day. Always prune at a 45-degree angle to ensure water runoff and avoid stagnant moisture on cuts, which can lead to decay. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cineraria plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Fill a seed tray with a sterile potting mix. Sow seeds evenly and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water gently to avoid washing seeds away. Place the tray in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight.

Use pruning shears to cut a healthy stem about 10 cm long from the parent plant just below a node. Remove lower leaves to minimize moisture loss and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.

Insert the cutting into a small pot filled with a sterile potting mix. Water lightly and cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place in indirect sunlight; the cutting should take root in a few weeks.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Cineraria plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repotting is necessary when the roots begin to outgrow the current pot, causing them to peek out from drainage holes. Additionally, if the plant shows signs of restricted growth or the potting mix degrades over time, consider repotting to refresh the soil nutrients.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Ensure it has good drainage holes at the bottom. This allows excess water to drain away, preventing root rot and providing adequate airflow to the roots, which is essential for healthy plant growth.

Opt for well-draining potting soil rich in organic matter with excellent aeration properties. This type of soil prevents water retention, reducing root rot risks and providing essential nutrients that help promote the vigorous growth of Pericallis hybrida.

More About Repotting Techniques→

Toxicity of Cineraria

Is Cineraria toxic to cat?

Cineraria poses a toxic threat to cats. If cats accidentally ingest any portion of this plant, they may face the possibility of poisoning. Following the consumption of cineraria, feline companions might show a range of symptoms that suggest they are experiencing physical distress or discomfort. Therefore, it is vital for cat owners to keep a close watch on their pets and restrict their access to cineraria to prevent any risk of poisoning. If a cat shows any signs of illness after exposure to cineraria, it is imperative to seek prompt veterinary assistance to guarantee appropriate treatment and avert any serious health consequences.

Is Cineraria toxic to dog?

Cineraria is recognized as toxic to canines. If dogs consume any part of this plant, whether unintentionally or out of curiosity, they can experience poisoning. The entire organism poses a threat, indicating that every component of cineraria, including leaves, flowers, and stems, could be dangerous if ingested by a dog. Signs of poisoning in dogs may encompass vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, faintness, and in severe instances, more grave neurological symptoms such as tremors or seizures. It is vital for dog owners to remain alert and prevent their pets from coming into contact with cineraria. Should there be any suspicion that a dog has ingested any part of cineraria, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to secure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→