Mistflower Bartlettina sordida
ABOUT
Bartlettina sordida, commonly known as the purple torch, is a visually striking plant with a lush, tropical appearance. The most notable feature of this plant is its flower clusters. The blooms are dense, rounded heads composed of many small, tubular flowers that are deep purple to lavender in color, giving the appearance of a torch or large puffball. These flower clusters are quite showy and create a strong visual impact in the garden or landscape. The leaves of the purple torch are large, heart-shaped, and have a rough texture. They are arranged in an opposite fashion on the stems and can be quite sizable, contributing to the plant's tropical look. The foliage tends to have a deep green color that contrasts beautifully with the striking purple of the flowers. The stems of the plant are sturdy and upright, supporting the heavy flower heads and broad foliage. The plant has an overall bushy and full growth habit, which helps to create a sense of lushness and abundance. It can become a statement piece in a garden due to its striking flowers and luxuriant leaves. The purple torch is known for its allure in the garden as a focal point due to its vivid flower color and attractive foliage.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Purple Torch, Blue Mist Flower
Common names
Eupatorium sordidum, Oreochromis mossambicus
ToxicityTo humans
Mistflower is not widely known to be toxic to humans. However, it is always prudent to be cautious with plants that are not commonly consumed. If any part of the mistflower is ingested and adverse reactions occur, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
To pets
Mistflower is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to pets. Nevertheless, as with humans, it is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting this or any unknown plants. If a pet consumes mistflower and shows signs of distress, contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Bartlettina sordida, commonly known as Mist Flower, adds striking visual interest to gardens with its lush foliage and vibrant purple flowers.
- Habitat Support: The plant provides nectar for a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and some bird species, enhancing biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: Mist Flower can help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion due to its root system.
- Shade Tolerance: It can thrive in shaded areas where other plants might struggle, making it suitable for forested or canopy-covered gardens.
- Ornamental Cutting: Its flowers are suitable for making decorative cut flower arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The flowers of the Bartlettina sordida can be used in ornamental arrangements due to their striking blue-violet color which adds aesthetic value to bouquets and decorations.
- The plant's striking appearance makes it a popular choice for use in landscaping and ornamental gardening to add visual interest to a garden setting.
- In some regions, the Bartlettina sordida's foliage is used as a natural backdrop for photographing smaller flora and fauna because of its dense and lush appearance.
- The bark of Bartlettina sordida could be experimented with for creating natural dyes, although usage for this purpose is not traditionally documented.
- Local artisans may use dried parts of the plant to create unique pieces of eco-friendly jewelry, like necklaces or earrings, embracing the natural texture of its components.
- Given its robust size, parts of the Bartlettina sordida may be useful in constructing temporary shelter for small animals or insects in garden ecosystems.
- The plant's tall stems can be used as natural stakes or supports for other climbing plants and vegetables within a garden.
- Where culturally appropriate, the plant could be considered in themed gardens or educational displays focused on Central American flora, as it is native to Mexico.
- In larger spaces, the Bartlettina sordida may be used to create living privacy screens or green walls, due to its potential to grow in dense clumps.
- The Bartlettina sordida is sometimes utilized in butterfly gardens, as its flowers can attract and provide nourishment to a variety of butterfly species in its native habitat.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Mist Flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Mist Flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery: The Bartlettina sordida, commonly known as the "Mistflower," often grows in shrouded woodland areas and has a distinct, almost mystical appearance, leading to its association with mystery.
- Healing: The Mistflower is known for its medicinal properties in traditional medicine, symbolizing healing and the relief of ailments.
- Attraction: With its bright and attractive flowers, the Mistflower symbolizes attraction and the ability to draw in positive experiences or people.
- Protection: In some cultures, plants are used to protect against negative energies, and the Mistflower, with its strong presence, may be considered a symbol of protection.
WaterThe Blue Mist Flower should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. They require roughly 1-2 gallons of water per week, adjusting for climate and season; during hot summers, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler seasons, less often. Use a watering can or hose to gently soak the soil at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
LightBlue Mist Flowers thrive in partial shade to full sun, making them quite adaptable to different garden spots. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight, although they can tolerate a few hours of direct sun, especially in the morning. An optimal location would be one where they are shielded from the harsh afternoon sun.
TemperatureBlue Mist Flowers grow best in temperatures ranging from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand brief periods of colder weather down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but are not frost-tolerant. Ideally, maintain a consistently warm environment for optimal growth and flowering potential.
PruningBlue Mist Flowers benefit from pruning to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing any dead or damaged branches and cutting back up to one-third of the plant's size. Deadheading the spent flowers throughout the growing season also promotes additional blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Mistflower requires well-draining soil with high organic content. A mix of potting soil, peat, and perlite works well. Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingMistflowers should be repotted every 2-3 years to ensure they have enough room to grow and to refresh the soil, which can become compacted and nutrient-depleted over time.
Humidity & MistingMistflower thrives in high humidity environments; aim for a humidity level of 60% or higher to keep this tropical plant happy.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity for Mistflowers.
Outdoor
Plant Mistflowers in partial shade and shelter from strong wind.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleBartlettina sordida, commonly known as Purple torch, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in moist, well-drained soil, typically in a partial shade environment. After sprouting, the seedling stage commences, where it develops its first set of true leaves. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the Purple torch grows rapidly, producing lush foliage and stems. When it reaches maturity, the plant enters the flowering stage, exhibiting clusters of vibrant purple flowers that attract pollinators. Following pollination, it produces seeds, which are then dispersed, often by birds or natural elements, to start a new generation. The plant's perennial nature allows it to enter a period of dormancy during unfavorable conditions, only to regrow from its rootstock with the return of favorable growth conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Bartlettina sordida, commonly known as the Purple Torch or Blue Mist Flower, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in the late summer. To propagate, a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is taken from a healthy branch that has not flowered this season. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then inserted into a well-draining potting mix and kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Placing the cutting in a warm area with indirect light helps improve the chances of successful rooting. Root formation usually takes a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to the ambient outdoor conditions before final planting.
