Asian Globeflower Trollius asiaticus
ABOUT
Known as the Asian globeflower, this perennial plant boasts a lush mound of dark green, palmately-lobed leaves, which provide a rich backdrop to its distinctive blooms. The flowers are striking, with a ball-like shape and bright, bold coloring that ranges from a sunny yellow to a warm orange hue, often with a hint of red. Their globe-like form earns their common name, as they resemble whimsical balloons set upon the plant's foliage. Each bloom is made up of numerous petal-like structures, which are actually modified structures called sepals, arranged in a globe shape. These sepals encase the reproductive parts of the flower and are very attractive to pollinators. The Asian globeflower has a sturdy, upright bearing when in flower, with the blooms sitting atop strong, slender stems that rise from the base of the plant. This captivating perennial adds a touch of whimsy to any garden it graces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Asian Globeflower, Asiatic Globeflower, Orange Globe Flower, Siberian Globeflower.
Common names
Trollius altaicus C.A.Mey., Trollius europaeus var. asiaticus (L.) Regel.
ToxicityTo humans
Trollius asiaticus, commonly known as Asian globeflower, is not widely recognized for having potent toxins affecting humans. Nevertheless, as with many plants, it may cause mild discomfort if ingested, such as nausea, diarrhea, or allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive individuals. It is advisable to avoid consuming any part of this plant and to keep it out of reach of children who might unintentionally ingest it.
To pets
Asian globeflower is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, ingestion of plant material by pets, especially in large amounts, could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. As a precautionary measure, it's best to prevent pets from consuming any part of this plant. If you suspect your pet has ingested Asian globeflower and is showing signs of distress, consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Trollius asiaticus, commonly known as Asian globe flower, adds vibrant color, with its bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers, to gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: The plant is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established, which is suitable for beginner gardeners.
- Tolerance to Cold: Being native to cold regions, the Asian globe flower can withstand low temperatures and can thrive in cooler climates.
- Marginal Pond Plant: It can be used around ponds and water features as it tolerates wet soils and can help stabilize pond banks and margins.
- Seasonal Interest: The plant blooms in the late spring to early summer, providing seasonal interest and color when many other plants have not yet peaked.
- Companion Planting: Trollius asiaticus can be paired with other perennials to create aesthetically pleasing combinations in garden beds and borders.
- Cultural Significance: The plant holds various cultural significances in its native ranges, including use in traditional celebrations and folklore.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Trollius asiaticus has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antipyretic: The plant is believed to help reduce fever.
- Diuretic: It may promote the increased passing of urine.
- Emmenagogue: It has been used historically to stimulate menstrual flow.
- Expectorant: Trollius asiaticus might be used to help expel phlegm from the throat or lungs.
- Wound healing: The plant has been applied to wounds in efforts to promote healing.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Trollius asiaticus, commonly known as Asian globeflower, can be utilized as a natural fabric dye, imparting a soft yellow to materials due to its pigmented petals.
- The crushed petals of the Asian globeflower sometimes serve as a colorant in traditional cosmetics, like blush or eyeshadow, owing to their vibrant hue.
- Gardeners sometimes plant Asian globeflower to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which aid in pollination of surrounding plants.
- Floral artists may use Asian globeflower in their arrangements for its unique globe-like blossoms, providing an interesting texture and form.
- The Asian globeflower has been historically used in storytelling and folklore, often symbolizing foolishness or a fool's errands in cultural tales.
- Asian globeflower can be used in educational settings, such as botanical studies, to demonstrate plant morphology and reproductive structures given its distinctive shape.
- This plant is sometimes incorporated into water garden designs due to its preference for moist soil, enhancing the aesthetic of such landscapes.
- Asian globeflower is occasionally used in ceremonies or traditional events, representing a symbol of good luck or new beginnings in certain cultures.
- Photographers may seek out Asian globeflower as a subject for nature photography due to its striking appearance and the challenge of capturing its depth and color accurately.
- Children may be taught to make simple crowns or chains from the stems and flowers of Asian globeflower as a traditional craft activity in certain regions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Globe Flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Globe Flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection - Trollius asiaticus has historically been used in folk medicine and traditional rituals to ward off evil spirits or negative influences.
- Luck - In some cultures, it is believed to be a bearer of good fortune, possibly due to its golden blooms.
- Perseverance and Strength - It flourishes in cold mountainous regions, symbolizing the ability to endure challenging conditions and maintain beauty.
- Overcoming obstacles - The way Trollius asiaticus grows in rough terrain signifies overcoming difficulties or challenges in life.
- Youth and Vitality - The vibrant, youthful color of the globeflower is often associated with the exuberance and energy of youth.
WaterThe Globe Flower (Trollius asiaticus) prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this might mean watering approximately once a week; however, this can vary depending on temperature and humidity conditions. Aim to provide the plant with about one gallon of water per week during the growing season, ensuring even soil moisture. During dormant periods in the winter, reduce the amount of water to prevent oversaturation as the plant's water needs decrease. It's important not to let the soil dry out completely but also to avoid waterlogged conditions which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Globe Flower thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Place it in a location where it will receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily, but provide some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent scorching. An ideal spot would be one that gets morning sun and dappled light in the afternoon, as this mimics the lighting conditions of its natural environment.
TemperatureGlobe Flowers prefer cooler temperatures and are hardy in a range of climates. They can survive temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth lies between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure they are not subjected to extreme heat for prolonged periods, which can stress the plants.
PruningPrune your Globe Flower to remove faded flowers and maintain its shape. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively. Pruning is best done after the main blooming period in late summer. It is not necessary to regularly prune the plant outside of this, but any damaged or diseased foliage should be removed as it appears.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Globe Flower (Trollius asiaticus) consists of a well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter added, such as compost or peat. Maintain a soil pH between 5.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingGlobe Flowers typically do not require frequent repotting. Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound in its current container.
Humidity & MistingGlobe Flowers prefer moderate humidity. They thrive in outdoor conditions where ambient humidity reflects the natural environment. Indoor settings should aim for similar moderate humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light and monitor soil moisture.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun, moist soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA.
Life cycleTrollius asiaticus, commonly known as Asian globeflower, begins its life as a seed that germinates in early spring in moist soil conditions. Upon germination, a seedling emerges and develops into a rosette of toothed, palmate leaves. The plant then grows upright stems and foliage, entering a vegetative stage where it accumulates resources through photosynthesis. After a period of vegetative growth, typically in late spring to early summer, the Asian globeflower enters the reproductive stage, producing distinctive bright yellow, globe-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and flies. Following pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing numerous small seeds, which upon maturation, are dispersed to the surrounding environment, predominantly by wind and water. With the onset of colder weather, the plant's above-ground parts may die back, but the root system remains alive, allowing the plant to reemerge from the same rootstock the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Trollius asiaticus, commonly known as Asian globeflower, is best propagated by division during the plant's dormant season, typically in the fall. This method involves carefully lifting the entire plant from the ground, using a sharp spade or knife to divide the root mass into several sections, ensuring that each section has at least one growth bud or shoot. These divisions are then replanted at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. The soil should be kept evenly moist to encourage root development. Division allows the gardener to multiply their stock of Asian globeflowers effectively and helps maintain the vigor of the plant by rejuvenating older clumps that might otherwise decline in performance.
