Bleeding heart houseplants. Beautiful dicentra: the garden embodiment of broken hearts. Flower legends

Dicentra (Dicentra) - a small genus of herbaceous or bushy annuals and perennials, famous for their original "heart" flowers. In Europe and Asia, members of this genus were involved in ornamental floriculture over a hundred years ago, becoming one of the most spectacular garden plants. In our country, then the only species gained particular popularity - Dicentra magnificent (D. spectabilis), which was popularly called "heartbreak". Unfortunately, neither the high decorative effect, nor the unpretentiousness inherent in it, provided the plant with “immunity” against the influx of overseas novelties during perestroika, when the dicenter was barbarously ousted from domestic front gardens and almost forgotten. American and Japanese breeders and collectors, on the contrary, from the middle of the 19th century became actively interested in species of the genus, due to which some of them were not only introduced into culture, but also used in the creation of charming varieties and hybrids. This allowed the dicenter to acquire new “prospects for use” in the near future, because in flower shops specimens began to arrive, differing both in strength of growth, and in the nature of flowering, and even in shades of flowers and leaves. The “former glory” of dicentra has now returned to our country, however, as practice has shown, not all of its types (varieties) were ready for the conditions of our climate.

Oddly enough, flower growers do not associate the popular names of this plant with unfortunate predictions or signs, in contrast, for example, with the same (“female happiness”). Neither " broken heart”, neither the “flower of the heart” nor the “bleeding heart” absolutely prevent foreigners from using the dicenter as a gift for Valentine's Day. Moreover, in Germany, it is still considered a kind of bewitching talisman: according to ancient belief, a person who wears a dicentra flower in his bosom very soon meets his soul mate (a girl is a betrothed, and a young man is a bride). So the dicenter can be confidently recommended for cultivation even to the most superstitious persons, especially since its other names are “lady in the bath”, “ladies' medallion”, “shoes Mother of God”, “Dutch breeches”, etc. - you can’t call them “cordial” in any way. Quite often, this plant also appears on sale and in the literature under the name that Carl Linnaeus once gave him - “Diclytra” (Diclytra). By the way, the flower shops of the dicenter can only come with the name of the variety, without specifying the species, but, as a rule, according to outward signs, duration and nature of flowering, belonging to the species can be determined maximum within a year after planting.

Types and varieties of dicentra

The most noticeable and most spectacular among dicenters can be considered Dicentra magnificent(Dicentra spectabilis). The characteristic features that distinguish it from other species are powerful bushy growth (up to 1 m in height), the presence of branched shoots and simple one-sided inflorescences-brushes. Note: because of these features and on the basis of molecular studies, in 1997 botanists singled out dicentra magnificent as a separate monotypic genus, therefore, since that time it has appeared in the international classification and is found in the botanical literature as Lamprocapnos spectabilis from the poppy family (Papaveraceae). ). The plant blooms from May for only 30 - 40 days, but with correct pruning faded inflorescences and favorable weather conditions may bloom again in August - September. Large (up to 3 cm in diameter) flowers, namely dicenters of the magnificent, have the most pronounced heart-shaped shape and look absolutely unsurpassed as hanging pendants on long (up to 20 - 30 cm) arcuate inflorescences. Their color can be either pure white (in varieties "Alba", "Pantaloons"), or classically pink ("Gold Heart") and cherry red ("Valentine"). Large, pinnately dissected leaves in most specimens of the magnificent dicentra are painted green above and smoky-gray below, but there is also a variety with unusual golden yellow foliage ("Gold Heart") and a variety with wine-dark, like peonies , stems ("Valentine"), the leaves of which change color with age from light to dark gray-green. By the way, varietal specimens of the magnificent dicentra are slightly smaller than species ones, but from this they decorative qualities by no means lose.

The romantic appearance of the dicentra is magnificent - perfect option to create landscapes, including , small architectural forms and . This plant looks equally expressive in single plantings on a lawn or in a tall flowerpot, and in groups mixed with low shrubs or general flower beds with spring flowers - daffodils, muscari, tulips, primroses, hyacinths, etc. Dicentra is also a rather profitable perennial that does not grow too actively and does not require a transplant for at least 3 to 4 years. Its disadvantages include gradual thickening, leading to 5-7 years of age (without transplantation) not only to a weakening of flowering, but also to rotting of the roots, a significant weakening of the plant itself and even its death. A significant disadvantage is the fact that the magnificent dicentra does not tolerate summer heat at all, which is why after spring flowering it often turns yellow (especially in the south) and goes dormant until next spring. In this regard, it is recommended to combine it with plants that will retain foliage until autumn (for example, with peonies, junipers, hostas, ferns) and cover bushes that have lost their decorative effect in a timely manner. By the way, the magnificent dicentra also does not always have time to set seeds in our climate, but against the backdrop of a very successful vegetative propagation(by dividing the rhizome, cuttings), this shortcoming can be forgiven for her.

A more modest, but no less attractive appearance has Dicentra is beautiful, or Taiwanese(Dicentra formosa). Its dimensions do not exceed 50 cm in height, and greenish-gray fern-like leaves on high petioles are collected in a basal rosette. The flowers are slightly smaller (no larger than 2 cm) and are collected in small inflorescences at the very top of tall erect peduncles, which gives the plant some resemblance to. The shape of the flowers is more elongated, “curvy”, and the color can vary from pure white (“Alba”, “Aurora”) and pale cream (“Ivory Hearts”) to rich cherry (“Luxuriant”, “Bacchanal”, “Stuart Boothman"). Many varieties of beautiful dicentra have a grayish-silver shade of foliage (“Spring Magic”, “King of Hearts”), which retains high decorativeness until autumn, and the “Spring Gold” variety even changes the color of the leaves from bright yellow in spring to pale green to end of summer. The advantages of this species can be considered a relatively long flowering (June-September) and rapid reproduction due to the growth of rhizomes and self-seeding. Beautiful dicentra is best used for decorating borders, rockeries and natural gardens in combination with roses, hellebore, thuja and juniper.

Very similar, but more compact looks and Dicentra exceptional, or excellent(Dicentra eximia). This miniature species does not exceed 30 cm in height, but is of interest for its abundant long flowering (from May to frost), bluish fern foliage and high heat resistance, which allows it to be used as worthy replacement dicentros are splendid in summer. A characteristic feature of the exclusive dicenter is the active growth of its rhizomes, which, of course, will come in handy when creating border compositions, but it will require the allocation of a significant place during planting, as well as the constant attention of the grower in terms of controlling rampant growth. Among the shortcomings, one can indicate the color of flowers limited to white and pink shades, as well as the intoxicating properties of the plant. In their homeland, the exceptional dicentra is called "grass-rod" because of the effect it has on animals that have eaten it, and in some countries it is generally prohibited for cultivation. Despite this, practice has shown that careful handling and work with gloves completely eliminates the similar harmful effects of dicentra on humans. Like other miniature garden plants, it is great for fronting mixborders and creating rocky gardens and slides, and it can also be successfully used for growing on a windowsill (forcing at home).

Compared to the examples listed above Dicentra foreign, or vagrant(Dicentra peregrina), and Dicentra climbing(Dicentra scandens) have a completely "unpredictable" appearance. The first one is groundcover with small carved, like a carrot, creeping bluish leaves and towering on high legs, like a cyclamen, large single or collected in small brushes (2-5 each) flowers, more like not a heart, but a horse's head. This species begins flowering late (July - September) and develops best in a cool climate. In nature, it usually forms carpet thickets on the surface of rocky slopes in the mountains of Primorsky Krai and Far East, but in culture it initially showed itself not from the best side, because in domestic botanical gardens everything experimental plants died with enviable stubbornness. Nevertheless, the experiments of Japanese breeders on crossing the foreign dicenter with the exclusive dicenter turned out to be very effective. Thanks to them, varieties and hybrids with shimmering blue openwork foliage and beautiful large flowers were obtained that were quite resistant to heat and profusely blooming all summer - "Candy hearts", "Ivory hearts", "Burning hearts", "Love hearts", "Dragon hearts" and others. Note: in a cool climate, their flowering usually lasts continuously, but in the south it can have a wave character with a short break in the very heat.

Dicentra climbing is very different from listed species. Firstly, it is a fast-growing vine (at least up to 2 m per season); secondly, her leaves are ovate-lanceolate, almost rounded, like those of a basil; and, thirdly, slightly elongated flowers collected in inflorescences are painted in an unusual for other species yellow, which is why the plant was called "golden tears" (although there are also pink-colored specimens). In the presence of support and favorable conditions, the plant grows willingly and blooms from June to frost, but, as practice has shown, it does not always winter successfully. Therefore, in a harsh climate, flower growers prefer to grow it as an annual (from seeds). It is obvious that at correct application this dicenter can serve as a worthy partner for any garden plant and all the species listed above, as well as make a good "company" and clematis.

Note: the types of dicentra listed above are rhizomatous plants, but tuberous species may also be on sale, the most famous of which Dicentra clobuche(Dicentra cucullaria) and Canadian dicentra(Dicentra canadensis). Both types - miniature plants(not higher than 20 cm) with gray-green fern foliage and roots consisting of small nodules similar to rice or small corn grains. The heart-shaped white flowers of the second plant are very fragrant, while those of the first have an unusually elongated shape and resemble inverted white pants with a yellow belt, which is why the dicentra has received the ironic name "Dutch panties". they bloom in early spring not longer than a month and go well with delphiniums and primroses, but then die off for a whole year, which should be taken into account when composing compositions. Tuberous dicentres few-flowered(Dicentra pauciflora) and one-flowered(Dicentra uniflora) are interesting for their silver-gray foliage, but they are used much less frequently in cultivation, since the first one is significantly inferior to the two species described above in the size of the flowers, and the second in their number. Tuberous dicenters are optimal for planting only in a well-drained rock garden, as they absolutely cannot stand getting wet and can die from dampening even in the wet summer months, not to mention the warm winters. Please note: the tubers of all these dicentras are poisonous, and poison for medical purposes (bikukullin) is even extracted from the leaves of the clobuche. The gardener, on the one hand, needs to take this fact into account in terms of careful planting / transplanting of plants, and on the other hand, it can be advantageously used to scare away rodents (mice) and pests (slugs, bears), planting tuberous dicenters along the perimeter of plantings especially valuable plants(rare, geraniums, etc.).

Features of landing dicentra

Despite such biological differences, which will have to be taken into account when planting, there are common properties for all dicenters. Firstly, they all develop better in partial shade, since they can fade in the open sun, fade faster and lose their decorative effect; in partial shade, flowers appear later, but in general, flowering is more abundant and lasts longer. Secondly, all dicenters prefer nutritious and necessarily well-drained rocky soil, therefore, in areas with close occurrence ground water(about 0.5 m) they will have to be planted in raised flower beds. Thirdly, absolutely all species (even the climbing dicentra) are considered to be fairly frost-resistant plants (from the 3rd frost resistance zone), but in our climate they often suffer due to damping out in warm winters, and due to the early start of the growing season, they are damaged by the first frosts. And, fourthly, dicentres equally poorly tolerate both waterlogging of the soil and its drying out (weakly bloom and grow), so they will have to provide for irrigation. golden mean". Therefore, if you purchased a plant with only the name of a variety, it is better to plant it separately in compliance with these “universal” requirements, and relocate it to a permanent place when you have already decided on the species.

In order to plant a dicenter in the spring, since the fall, the place chosen for planting should be fertilized with humus (3–5 kg per square meter of area), dug to a depth of 40 cm and, if necessary, “lighten” with loosening components - expanded clay, brick chips, etc. Since flower growers often combine the planting procedure with the division of bushes, it should be noted that the roots of rhizomatous dicentric species are very juicy and easily injured, therefore, after digging, they should be dried for at least 3-4 hours, and then divided and planted. For all rhizome dicenters, the planting pit should be at least 40 × 40 cm in size, the only exception is the wandering dicenter, which, like tuberous species, is planted smaller. In group plantings large species and varieties (dicentra magnificent and beautiful) should be planted at a distance of 40 cm from each other, small according to the scheme 20 × 20 cm, and the climbing one should be immediately provided with support. When compiling compositions, it should be borne in mind that the magnificent and climbing dicenter will have to be dug out in 3-4 years, and the rest of the species (including tuberous ones) will not, since their division can be carried out without digging, separating part of the bush immediately in the ground. Of course, to dig and divide a large, overgrown root system adult dicenter is very problematic, but since with age it thickens excessively and partially begins to rot, without a timely transplant with division (removal of damage) by the age of 7, the plant may die altogether. Here, by the way, it should be pointed out that, unlike the climbing dicentra, which can be “renewed” annually by growing from seeds, the magnificent dicentra does not tie them in our conditions, so this method will not work for her.

Dicentra Care

After planting the dicenter, regular watering and careful loosening of the soil should be ensured, which in dry weather can also be mulched to better retain moisture. A month later, to stimulate flowering, it is advisable to feed the plant with complete mineral fertilizer (superphosphate), and immediately after flowering - with nitrogen-containing (mullein infusion). To prolong flowering, it is strongly recommended to remove fading flowers on the dicenter, and to stimulate a second wave at the dicenter, magnificent flower stalks should be cut at a height of 10 cm from the soil level. Note: for better tillering, some flower growers advise to pinch the magnificent dicenter above the fourth leaf, but since the flowers usually become smaller after this procedure, it is still better to “stimulate active tillering” by planting several (2 - 3) young plants in one hole. Although other types of dicentra do not need pruning and pinching, they will not let you forget about yourself for a long time either - from time to time you will have to regulate their growth to the sides. With regard to diseases, the dicenter can be considered relatively stable, but pests (snails,) can cause her a lot of trouble, so it’s better to deal with them immediately with preventive methods - spray the plant with Iskra Bio or Zolon in a timely manner.

By the autumn, when the leaves of the dicentra dry up, they need to be cut short at the base and cover the bush for wintering with spruce branches or lutrasil stretched over low arcs. This will ensure good snow retention, and in the spring it will help protect the shoots of the plant from the first frosts. It is undesirable to use a denser shelter (sawdust, peat), as the roots can rot. By the way, practical experience confirms that some species dicenters still have time to set seeds and even sow them "independently". Therefore, if in the fall you find young sprouts next to the mother plant, do not be too lazy to cover them for the winter too, and transplant them to a permanent place in the spring. Considering that the winter hardiness (not frost resistance!) of some varieties and types of dicentra (tuberous, climbing) in our climate has not yet been sufficiently tested, experienced gardeners recommend either growing plants in large pots (containers) so that they can be transferred to the basement for wintering , or alternatively winter storage engage in distillation dicentra at home.

Forcing dicentres

For distillation, it is better to give preference to rhizomatous species that are “non-dangerous” for domestic animals, which in August - September are already moving into a dormant period. The strongest plant in early autumn must be dug up, the rhizome slightly dried and divided into small (at least 10 cm) divisions with two to three buds. If a planting material a lot, part of it can be planted back into the garden in the planting pits prepared in advance (at least a month in advance) and, closer to winter, cover it in the manner described above. The rest of the delenki need to be planted in pots with nutritious soil, composed of leafy and garden soil(2 parts each) and sand (1 part), pour them over and place in a cool (1 - 3 ° C) dark room. Until the beginning of January, the soil should be watered occasionally so that the roots do not dry out, and then transfer the pots to light and more warm room(10 - 12 ° C), gradually bring the ambient temperature to room temperature (20 ° C) and organize regular watering, and with the beginning of the vegetation of plants - also top dressing every 10 - 12 days. The first "hearts" with such care will decorate the windowsill in February - why not original gift for Valentine's Day? After the end of flowering and the death of the leaves, the pots with dicenters will have to be taken out again in the cool (in the basement), and with the onset spring warmth either planted in the garden, or transplanted into large pots in order to use them again for forcing in the fall.

"Bleeding Heart Vine" - bleeding heart vine so called in English-speaking countries Mrs. Thompson's clerodendrum. This plant won me over with its combination of vibrant greenery, climbing support (I love creepers), and bright white and scarlet unusual buds. This indoor liana is a well-known sun worshiper, it grows with pleasure on my southern balcony. It’s just that you need to monitor watering, because large leaves evaporate a lot of moisture, and with insufficient moisture, they “hang” lifelessly along the stem. However, if you catch yourself in time (on the same day), water it properly - and they will restore their turgor again, come to life, straighten up, as if nothing had happened.

Still this liana would not be a sun worshiper - after allClerodendrum thomsoniae native to the west coast of Africa! And its name was given, thanks to the scarlet drops of "blood" that protrude from the snow-white, heart-shaped flowers.

The word "Klerodendrum" itself is translated as "tree of fate", from the Greek words kleros - fate and dendron - tree. The flowers consist of globular white calyxes from which emerge brilliant dark red corollas with prominent stamens extending far beyond the petals.

The flowers last for a long time, several months, although the red corolla falls off faster. As they age, the flowers change color from white to pale pink or lavender, but eventually take on a brownish tan as they dry out. Mrs. Thompson's Clerodendrum will bloom almost all year round with sufficient light and heat, but his most prolific period is in the summer. If pollinated, the flowers will produce fruits that, when ripe, turn from red to black, and then separate, revealing four black seeds.

In our conditions, the klerodendrum needs a cooler wintering (between 10-16 degrees). Thanks to this, it will bloom most brightly and for a long time.

Since the plant belongs to climbers, it can be shaped as a more compact bush, achieving this by trimming and planting several copies in one container. And you can also "curl" the plant around the support. The main thing is to carry out anti-aging pruning every spring, and shorten without sparing literally half. Such pruning will stimulate future flowering well.

And finally, for a long time I was haunted by the question: who is this Mrs. Thompson, after whom the clerodendrum was named? There is little information on this topic on the Russian-speaking Internet, I had to search a little. Turned out to be Mrs. William CooperThompson was a missionary's wife United Presbyterian, who transferred the plant to the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens from southern Nigeria, Old Calabar. In honor of her, he received his botanical name.

"Bleeding Heart" Clerodendrum

Many have not heard of such an interesting indoor plant as clerodenrum, and in vain.

It's tropical and exotic plant unpretentious in care and and unusually decorative.

My acquaintance with him began more than 25 years ago.

I was fond of rare indoor plants, which in Moscow at that time were almost impossible to get, only from flower growers in the "bird market" or, on occasion, from Soviet specialists who came from hot countries.

I then came across some amazing plants: Madame Thomson's climbing Clerodendrum (Madame Pampadour variety) with extraordinary flowers in the form of a white oval box with a red flower on top; leaf spurge ribbed, nicknamed "Cheburashka", for large and fleshy leaves growing at the end of a shoot thickened in the form of a head and Irezina Bright red "Napoleon's Heart" with leaves in the form of a blood-colored heart ...

I trembled over these plants and then read everything I could ...

Now their descendants are growing on my windowsills at home and in the country, only the "Heart of Napoleon" did not survive such a long time ...

Then, already 15 years ago, I learned about other types of my beloved clerodendrum plant.

Clerodendrum (Clerodendrum)- a genus of tropical perennials from the Lamiaceae family, among which there are various plant forms: herbs, creepers, shrubs, shrubs and trees. Some flowering species are grown as ornamental plants, including in room culture and greenhouses.

Family: Lamiaceae.

Homeland:tropics of Asia and Africa.

Rhizome:roots are strong but fragile.

Stem:upright or curly.

Leaves:simple, opposite or whorled.

Fetus: drupe.

Reproductive ability:propagated by division, cuttings, root segments or seeds.

Illumination:bright light without direct sun.

Watering:plentiful in summer, limited or moderate in winter.

Content temperature:in summer 18-25 °С, in winter 15-18 °С.

Bloom time:spring, summer or autumn depending on the species.

The clerodendrum flower is distinguished by its original shape, mostly resembling a butterfly, sometimes an exotic bouquet. Its color can be white, red, pink, yellow, blue. The calyx is bell-shaped, with five sepals, usually fused below, the corolla is tubular, cylindrical, also with five lobes, often unequal in size.

The stamens protrude far beyond the corolla, there are usually four, rarely five, with one pair much longer than the second. As a rule, the calyx and corolla are colored in contrast, which makes the plant even brighter and more elegant.

The culture is distinguished by abundant and long flowering, which can occur in winter and spring (brilliant clerodendrum), last all summer, from June to September (the most beautiful clerodendrum), or spring, from March to June (Thompson clerodendrum). Some varieties of good care can bloom all year round (scented clerodendrum).

In all representatives of the genus, the fruit is a berry-like four-celled drupe, in which four or two seeds are formed.

The tropical regions of the African continent and South Asia are considered to be the birthplace of culture, where most types of clerodendrum grow, however, some of its representatives also live in the tropics of America, are found in northern Australia, and some few varieties can be found even in the temperate zone of East Asia.

The name of the plant comes from two Greek words, "kleros" and "dendrum", it can literally be translated as "tree of fate". It is believed that the culture owes its name to a Javanese legend, according to which it brings happiness to its owner.

In floricultural literature, clerodendrum is also known as clerodendron and volcameria, and among the people it is often called "innocent love", obviously for the unusual shape of the flowers and abundant, long flowering.

The decorative qualities of culture were highly valued even in antiquity. The ancient Romans dedicated the clerodendrum to the goddess of love Venus, during the holidays they decorated temples and dwellings with flowers.

In Europe, these tropical plants began to be grown in rooms and greenhouses in the 19th century. Several types were used, mostly curly, which made it possible to create spectacular vertical walls and curtains.

AT recent times the range of cultivated species has expanded significantly and includes not only creepers, but also a number of shrubs.

Ornamental types of clerodendrum plant:

The genus Clerodendrum includes up to 400 different species. Many of them are characterized by abundant and long flowering, in countries with a warm climate, individual bush varieties are grown as ornamental horticultural crops, in temperate regions climate zone used as greenhouse and houseplants.

Clerodendrum Thomson

Clerodendrum Thomson (C. thomsoniae)- more often than others it is used as an indoor flower, it grows in nature in the tropical forests of Guinea, Congo and Nigeria. Its discoverer, the Scottish missionary George Thomson, collected African plants in the mid-19th century for shipment to the British Museum and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The plant is believed to be named after the missionary's wife, which is why it is commonly referred to as "Mistress Thomson's Clerodendrum".

It is a climbing shrub, thin flexible shoots of which in open ground reach a length of 4 m, in a closed - can grow up to 2.5 m. large flowers with a white bell-shaped calyx and a bright red tubular corolla, collected in numerous axillary or apical paniculate inflorescences, appear in March-July, and again in autumn. After the corolla wilts, the calyx remains on the flower for a long time, acquiring a lilac tint. For the original heart-shaped shape with a red droplet at the end, the plant is often called the "bleeding heart" by the people. Culture is distinguished not only by its long abundant flowering, but also decorative leaves, large, up to 12 cm, bright green, shiny. Leaf blades are oblong-pointed, with a wrinkled surface and pronounced veins, covered with light or dark spots. There are varieties with yellow-green foliage. The plant has a pronounced dormant period with a cool (about 10 ° C) content. It is grown in an ampelous form, with the help of pruning it can be formed in the form of a bush.

Clerodendrum the most beautiful

Clerodendrum finest or Javanese (C.speciosissimum) found on the Sunda and other islands in the southeastern part Pacific Ocean. This evergreen shrub in nature it grows up to 3 m, at home - up to 70-100 cm. On its tetrahedral shoots, large, bright green, pubescent, heart-shaped leaves are oppositely located, the long petioles of which have a dull red tint.

The culture is characterized by abundant and long flowering, starting in summer and lasting until the middle or even the end of autumn. Flowers irregular shape, bright red, with long stamens, collected in paniculate apical inflorescences. The color of the corolla is somewhat darker than that of the calyx. The peculiarities of the plant include unpretentiousness and the fact that it does not need a winter dormant period with a low temperature.

Clerodendrum Philippine

Philippine Clerodendrum or Fragrant (C. philippinum, C. fragrans)- undersized, up to 1-2 m, shrub with pubescent shoots and large, wide velvety leaves, serrated along the edge. It grows wild in China and Japan. Its large, up to 8 cm in diameter, white flowers with a pink tint are collected in corymbose apical inflorescences, resembling bunches up to 20 cm in diameter.

This is one of the fragrant types of clerodendrum, its flowers are distinguished by a subtle violet-citrus aroma, especially noticeable at night and in the morning. At home, with sufficient lighting, the plant can bloom for a long time, almost all year round. It grows quickly, does not require complex care, does without a dormant period, easily propagated by processes that form around the main trunk. Poorly tolerates excess moisture and direct sunlight. There is a form with double flowers.

Clerodendrum uganda

Clerodendrum uganda (C. ugandense)- a rather rare view in the rooms, which, nevertheless, has many advantages. This liana-like shrub is tolerant of a lack of moisture, with regular watering can grow even in the open sun, unlike most home clerodendrums, it reproduces very easily.

Abundant flowering begins in summer and can last until the end of autumn. The unusual color and shape of the flower makes it look like an exotic butterfly, for which the culture is popularly called the “blue butterfly”. The size of the flower is 2-2.5 cm in diameter, its four upper and side petals are blue, the fifth, lower, purple or blue, long curved stamens, resembling butterfly antennae, are also blue. Loose, branching few-flowered inflorescences are formed at the tops of the stems, in rooms their length is about 20 cm, in greenhouses it can reach 30-45 cm. The natural habitat of the species is the mountain forests of Uganda. Thin shoots, covered with broadly lanceolate or narrowly ovate leaves, can grow up to 2-3 m in open ground within a few months. The plant looks good in greenhouses and spacious rooms, where there is enough space for its development. In room conditions, it needs regular pruning, which must be started very early to form a compact bush. beautiful shape. Pruning is carried out immediately after flowering.

Wallich's Clerodendrum

Wallich's Clerodendrum (C. wallichiana)- exclusively decorative look originating from the mountainous regions of India, Nepal, South China with a pronounced subtropical climate.

It is named in honor of the Danish botanist and Indian flora researcher Nathaniel Wallich, who served as manager of the Calcutta Botanical Gardens in 1817-1842. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree with hanging shoots, glossy, slightly wavy along the edge, lanceolate leaves up to 15 cm long and lush inflorescences of fragrant white flowers, collected in long, falling, racemose inflorescences. In nature, the bush can grow up to 2-4 m, at home it does not exceed 50 cm.

The culture is usually grown in ampelous form, its thin, hanging shoots look spectacular in hanging planters. At the end of August, inflorescences appear at the ends of the branches, in which large, up to 3 cm in diameter, flowers bloom gradually, within 1.5 - 2 months. The shape of the flower is the same as in other species, with five petals, long, far protruding stamens, and a characteristic swollen calyx. In the natural form, the color of the stellate calyx is coral red, the petals and stamens are white.

Clerodendrum Prospero

The popular variety of this clerodendrum, Prospero, has a greenish calyx that does not contrast with the color of the petals, which makes the long, up to 20 cm, lushly flowering brushes even more elegant.

Because of the falling stream of snow-white flowers, the culture is often called the “bride veil” by the people. In catalogs, it can also be found under the names: clerodendrum wallichi, wallis, nodding clerodendrum or, for its pleasant and intense aroma, nodding jasmine.

The species tolerates indoor conditions well, needs intense but diffused lighting, a temperature not lower than 18 ° C, regular watering, fertilizing and spraying. It tolerates pruning, which is carried out in February-March, to give the plant the opportunity to form new shoots and lay flower buds. Successfully propagated by cuttings.

Clerodendrum Bunge

Clerodendrum Bunge (C.Bungei) is of Chinese origin. In open ground, it is a rather tall, up to 3 m, shrub with straight branched shoots, rough, dark green, heart-shaped leaves with a serrated edge, and small, fragrant, pale pink flowers. The latter are collected in flat, reminiscent of appearance hydrangea, corymbose inflorescences with a diameter of about 15 cm.

The culture is quite unpretentious, less demanding on watering compared to other species. It propagates not very readily, mainly by root shoots, or cuttings using phytogens. Relatively cold-resistant, in the southern regions with mild winters can be grown outdoors.

Clerodendrum inerme

Clerodendrum thornless, or inerme (C. inerme)- an evergreen shrub species that grows everywhere along the coasts of rivers and seas in tropical Asia, Sri Lanka, the Pacific Islands up to Australia and western Polynesia. Its straight, branched shoots grow up to 3 m, the opposite leaves are smooth, glossy above, have an ovate-oblong shape with a pointed end and a smooth edge and a size varying from 5 to 10 cm.

In January-November, flowers bloom on the tops of the branches, snow-white, with long purple stamens and a pistil of the same shade, collected in three pieces in inflorescences-umbrellas. In warm countries, the plant is widely used to create living fences, because it grows quickly, tolerates shearing well, is relatively drought-resistant and undemanding to soils. It can grow even on saline lands, including sea coasts, withstanding the open sun and salt spray. AT room culture clerodendrum inerme is grown less frequently. The flower develops well in bright rooms, tolerates the dry air of apartments and insufficient watering well, in winter it needs a cool dormant period. breeds green cuttings or seeds.

I will be very happy if you love these amazing plants with the same passion with which I love them...

culture art literature prose prose Many have not heard of such an interesting indoor plant as clerodenrum, and in vain. This tropical and exotic plant is unpretentious in care and unusually decorative.

Dicentra is magnificent - a plant from herbaceous perennials that has gained worldwide popularity among gardeners due to unusual flowers that look like hearts. What varieties are known, how and when to plant a crop? What care will be required? Everything about this, with a selection of relevant photographs, can be found in the article.

Some facts about the center

Dicentra - interesting plant with many common names. "Broken heart", "bleeding heart", "flower of the heart", "lady's locket" - all these names are fully consistent with the appearance of delicate flowers.

Back in the 19th century, it could be found in many gardens and front gardens in Russia. Over time, interest in the plant faded and dicentra was almost completely replaced by other cultures. It is only thanks to American and Japanese collectors that it has recently gained popularity again. In addition, through the efforts of scientists, new varieties and hybrids of a charming flower were bred.

About 20 species belonging to the genus dicentra have now been described. In nature, they grow in parts of North America and East Asia. In the conditions of central Russia, due to climatic features, it is possible to grow only one of the natural plant species and about a dozen cultivated ones. The most spectacular of them is deservedly considered a magnificent dicentra.

plant description

A characteristic difference between the magnificent dicentra and other species is a powerful bush up to 1 m in height. On branched shoots are pinnate dissected leaves. They are green on top and bottom side bluish. In some varieties, the color of the leaves is slightly different.

Arc-shaped inflorescences, in the form of simple one-sided brushes, can reach 20 cm. The flowers have the shape of a heart cut in two. On long legs, they look like hanging pendants. The flowering period begins in early May and lasts about a month.

Seeds under the conditions of the middle zone near the magnificent dicentra are not tied, respectively, it will not be possible to propagate it with their help here. The rhizome of the plant is vertical, light brown in color. A month after the end of flowering, the leaves of the dicentra turn yellow and dry out. In the middle of summer, the plant goes dormant.

Common varieties of dicentra magnificent:

Features of planting a plant

It is better to choose a landing site in partial shade. In the sun, the dicentra fades and fades earlier, from which it quickly loses its decorative effect. In shading, the plant begins to bloom later, but this period lasts longer.

In order to plant a dicenter in the spring, the soil must be prepared in the fall. The place is covered with humus and dug up well. To improve air permeability, it is recommended to add loosening agents when planting: expanded clay, crushed brick, fine gravel, etc.

In group plantings, dicentres are planted at a distance of 50 cm from each other in 40x40 holes.

Advice. Dicentras do not tolerate stagnant water, therefore, in a site with a high occurrence of groundwater, it is better to plant them in raised flower beds.

plant care

In the spring, as soon as the leaves sprout, you can loosen the soil around the plant and mulch it. With a well-prepared landing site in the fall, it is not necessary to feed the dicenter.

You need to water as needed and in moderation - both waterlogging and drought are detrimental to the plant.
After all the leaves have dried, they need to be cut off and sprinkled with peat on the roots. Shelter for the winter is not worth it: dicentra tolerates frost well, but during the thaw the rhizome can rot.

Advice. In the spring, it is better to cover the young shoots with lutrasil. This will protect them from frost damage.

Reproduction dicentra

The method of dividing the bush. Splendid dicentra bushes must be planted every 3-4 years. If this is not done, then upon reaching 6-7 years, thickening begins, and then rotting of the roots, as a result of which the plant dies. Usually, flower growers combine transplanting with planting a bush by dividing, while removing damaged parts.

Carry out division better in spring, with the beginning of plant growth. The transplant rules are the same as for the initial planting. The bush is carefully dug out and divided so as not to damage. The roots of the dicentra are fragile, therefore, it is advisable to dry them for 3-4 hours before transplanting to a new place. To get a lush bush, several divisions can be placed in one hole.

Attention! The rhizome of dicentra splendid is poisonous. You need to work with it very carefully.

cuttings. In the spring, cuttings with a heel about 15 cm long are cut. They are immersed in a root formation stimulator for a day, after which they are planted in separate containers and covered with glass or film.

Plants obtained in this way can be planted in a flower bed only after a year.

Diseases and pests

Dicentra is resistant to diseases, but can be affected by tobacco mosaic virus and ring spot, as a result of which the leaves of the plant become stained various shapes and magnitude. As a preventive measure, watering should be adjusted and plantings should not be thickened. This will ensure good ventilation, which will prevent the development of diseases.

It is susceptible to dicenter and mycoplasma. At the same time, the growth of the bush slows down, and the inflorescences are strongly curved. Of the pests, slugs can be noted, which can severely damage the leaves and flowers of dicentres.

Blooming dicentra magnificent is able to create a romantic mood in any garden. It is simply impossible to pass and not notice these tender hearts, as if carved by a master of jewelry. At the same time, it is absolutely easy to grow such beauty. It is enough to have a desire and some information about the plant.

Dicentra in the garden: video