Chilean Bellflower Lapageria rosea 'Flesh Pink'
ABOUT
The Flesh Pink Chilean bellflower is a strikingly beautiful climbing plant, admired for its elegant and exotic appearance. This particular variety showcases enchanting bell-shaped flowers with a delicate blush of flesh pink color. The petals are thick and waxy, lending a sense of robustness and luxury to the display. Each flower is generously sized and hangs gracefully from the vine, often attracting admiring glances from passersby. The blossoms are complemented by glossy green leaves that provide a lush backdrop, highlighting the soft pink hue of the flowers. The foliage is evergreen, which means the plant remains attractively clothed in leaves throughout the year, contributing to its ornamental value in a garden setting. Overall, the Flesh Pink Chilean bellflower exemplifies romantic beauty, with its captivating flowers and enduring greenery forming a picturesque vision that enchants garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Chilean Bellflower, Copihue, Chilean Glory Flower.
Common names
Lapageria rosea 'Flesh Pink'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Chilean bellflower is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from this plant, and it is not known to contain any toxic principles that would pose a risk if ingested. However, it is always prudent to avoid eating any plant material unless it is known to be safe and intended for human consumption.
To pets
The Chilean bellflower is not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed among plants that are commonly recognized as poisonous to animals, such as dogs and cats. As with humans, there are no significant reports of toxicity in pets from ingesting this plant. Nonetheless, it's always wise to monitor pets and prevent them from eating plants, as individual animals may have different sensitivities or allergic reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Flesh Pink
Height
10 feet [3 meters]
Spread
3 feet [1 meter]
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Chile
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Copihue adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its attractive, bell-shaped, flesh pink flowers.
- Habitat for Wildlife: It provides shelter and nectar for local pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds.
- Cultural Significance: As the national flower of Chile, Copihue holds cultural importance and can instill a sense of national pride.
- Erosion Control: This plant can help stabilize soil on slopes, thereby preventing erosion.
- Shade Tolerance: Copihue can grow in shady areas where other plants might not thrive, making it useful for underplanting in woodland gardens.
- Long Flowering Period: It has a long blooming season, which can span several months, providing sustained beauty in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Copihue can be used as a source of inspiration for artists and photographers due to its unique and vibrant pink blossoms.
- In cultural ceremonies of the indigenous Mapuche people of Chile, Copihue blossoms may be used as symbolic decorations or gifts.
- Its long-lasting flowers allow the Copihue to be incorporated into bridal bouquets or wedding decorations for a touch of natural beauty.
- Being the national flower of Chile, the Copihue is often replicated in various forms of commemorative merchandise such as stamps, coins, and souvenirs.
- The Copihue can be studied by botanists and horticulturists for its unusual climbing habit and adaptation to temperate rainforest ecosystems.
- Its rarity and beauty make the Copihue a prized specimen for private collectors and enthusiasts of exotic plants.
- As an emblem of Chile, the Copihue is used in educational materials to teach about national symbols and the importance of biodiversity conservation.
- The vine's sturdy stems are sometimes used in the crafting of small traditional handicrafts by local artisans.
- In floristry, the Copihue is used as a high-end decorative element for creating unique and elegant floral arrangements.
- During certain Chilean festivities, the Copihue flowers may be used to adorn traditional clothing or worn in the hair as a natural accessory.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chilean bellflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chilean bellflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- National Pride: Lapageria rosea 'Flesh Pink', commonly known as the Chilean bellflower, is the national flower of Chile, symbolizing the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Its status as a national emblem imbues it with a sense of pride and importance among Chileans.
- Endurance and Survival: The Chilean bellflower is a climbing plant that thrives in the temperate rainforests of Chile, representing resilience and the ability to overcome challenging environments. This reflects the symbolism of perseverance and tenacity in adverse conditions.
- Rare Beauty: Due to its rare and unique appearance, the Chilean bellflower is often associated with exceptional beauty and rarity in the plant world, making it a symbol of preciousness and exclusivity.
- Passion: The vibrant pink color of the 'Flesh Pink' variety is typically associated with feelings of love and passion. This shade of the Chilean bellflower could symbolize romantic emotions and deep affection.
- Elegance: With its graceful, bell-shaped flowers, the Chilean bellflower represents elegance and sophistication. Its delicate appeal suggests a sense of refinement and stylishness.
WaterThe Chilean Bellflower should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Depending on the climate, this could mean watering with about 1 gallon per week. During the active growing season, especially in dry weather, you may need to water every 2-3 days. In cooler months, reduce watering to when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
LightThe Chilean Bellflower thrives best in partial shade to filtered sunlight. It should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun which can scorch its leaves. The ideal spot for this plant is in an east-facing or north-facing position where it receives bright but indirect light.
TemperatureThe Chilean Bellflower favors temperate conditions and can survive minimum temperatures down to 23°F. The optimum temperature range lies between 50°F and 75°F. Extreme heat or frost should be avoided as it can damage the plant.
PruningThe Chilean Bellflower requires minimal pruning, mainly to remove dead or damaged growth and to shape the plant. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring, before new growth starts. This also provides the opportunity to remove any weak or crossing branches to maintain the plant's health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Chilean Bellflower, a soil mix rich in organic matter with good drainage is essential. Aim for acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 6.5). Mix peat with perlite or pine bark for best results.
RepottingChilean Bellflowers should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current pot. They prefer to be pot-bound, so avoid frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingChilean Bellflower thrives in high humidity conditions, optimally between 60-80%. Avoid dry air and provide a humid environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Part shade, sheltered area, moist, humus-rich soil.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Chilean Bellflower 'Flesh Pink' begins with seed germination, which requires a moist, well-draining soil and a cool, shady environment. Following germination, the seedling stage involves initial root and shoot growth, gradually developing into a young plant. As it matures, the plant enters the vegetative stage where it focuses on leaf production and stem elongation, often taking several years before it starts flowering. The flowering stage occurs once the plant has matured sufficiently, showcasing its distinctive flesh pink, bell-shaped flowers that are pollinated by birds, particularly hummingbirds. After pollination, the plant produces fruit in the form of a berry containing seeds, which can be dispersed to give rise to new plants, completing the life cycle. As a perennial, the Chilean Bellflower 'Flesh Pink' can go through the flowering and fruiting stages repeatedly, often living for many years in the right conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chilean bellflower, as Lapageria rosea 'Flesh Pink' is commonly known, is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is most effective in the late summer or early fall. To propagate, one should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, making sure it has several leaf nodes. The cut end should be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development and then planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks to a couple of months, after which the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
