Globe Flower Trollius × cultorum 'Superbus'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Superbus' is a type of globeflower, characterized by its vibrant and showy cup-shaped blossoms. The flowers are often a radiant buttery yellow that can sometimes also take on orange or golden hues, making them quite eye-catching in any garden setting. Each bloom is made up of numerous petals, intricately arranged in a globe-like fashion, hence the name. The petals have a slight sheen to them and can appear almost waxy to the touch. The foliage of the globeflower 'Superbus' is deep green, providing a lush backdrop to the bright flowers. The leaves are divided into segments, giving them a toothed appearance, and they are often arranged in a basal cluster that lies close to the ground. The texture of the leaves is somewhat glossy, adding to the plant's ornamental value. The overall appearance of the globeflower 'Superbus' is quite striking due to the contrast between the bold flowers and the rich green foliage. The plant has a rounded, mound-like shape, and it presents a cheerful and robust presence in a garden or landscaped area. Its vibrant blossoms are known to attract various pollinators, adding to the dynamic interplay of garden ecology.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Globe Flower, Superbus Globe Flower.
Common names
Trollius × cultorum 'Superbus'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as globe flower is not specifically listed as toxic to humans. However, it is generally advised to avoid ingestion of ornamental plants due to the possibility of gastrointestinal irritation or other adverse effects that may occur with plants not typically used for food. If ingested, ornamental plants can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in some individuals. Therefore, caution should be exercised to prevent accidental ingestion, especially by children.
To pets
The globe flower is not specifically listed as toxic to pets. However, as with humans, it's generally advised to prevent pets from ingesting ornamental plants. Some plants, even if not classified as highly toxic, can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset when ingested. Symptoms in pets might include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Keeping such plants out of reach of pets is recommended to avoid any potential discomfort or health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Trollius × cultorum 'Superbus', commonly known as globe flower, has vibrant, cup-shaped yellow flowers that add a bright and cheerful aesthetic to gardens.
- Attracts pollinators: The globe flower is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination in the garden ecosystem.
- Easy to grow: This plant is relatively easy to cultivate and maintain, making it suitable for gardeners of various skill levels.
- Long blooming period: The globe flower has a long flowering season, usually from late spring to early summer, providing a sustained display of color.
- Tolerates wet soil: Unlike many other plants, Trollius × cultorum 'Superbus' can thrive in wet soil conditions, making it a good choice for damp areas in the garden.
- Cold hardy: The plant is quite resistant to cold temperatures, making it suitable for cooler climates and extending its potential range of cultivation.
- Low maintenance: Globe flowers require minimal upkeep once established, with no need for complex pruning or feeding regimens.
- Deer resistant: This plant is not typically eaten by deer, reducing the likelihood of damage in areas with deer populations.
- Versatile garden use: Globe flowers can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, cottage gardens, and as part of mixed plantings.
Medical Properties
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The Globe Flower can be used to create striking floral compositions for macro photography due to its unique shape and bright color.
- Fabric Dye: The petals of the Globe Flower can be boiled to extract a dye for coloring fabrics or yarn in shades of yellow to orange.
- Artistic Inspiration: The shape and color of the Globe Flower make it a popular subject for botanical illustration and watercolor painting.
- Educational Model: The distinct floral structure of the Globe Flower can be used as a teaching tool in botany classes to illustrate plant anatomy.
- Performance Art: Petals of the Globe Flower could be used in performance art pieces, where artists incorporate natural materials into their presentations.
- Culinary Decoration: The petals, while not commonly eaten, can be used as a natural and vibrant garnish on desserts and cocktails for special occasions, after ensuring they are safe and free of pesticides.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried petals of the Globe Flower can serve as eco-friendly confetti for celebrations like weddings or eco-conscious events.
- Floral Baths: Petals of the Globe Flower can be added to bathwater for a luxurious and aromatic bathing experience.
- Natural Ink: The juices extracted from the Globe Flower petals can be used to make natural inks for fountain pens or traditional painting.
- Seasonal Festivities: Globe Flowers can be incorporated into wreaths or floral arrangements for festivals, particularly in spring-themed decorations.
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- Globeflower: The common name globeflower comes from the round shape of its blossoms, symbolizing unity and togetherness.
- Perseverance: Able to thrive in cold climates, the globeflower represents resilience and the ability to persist through challenges.
- Cheerfulness: With its bright and sunny flowers, the globeflower signifies cheerfulness and the ability to bring joy to others.
- Protection: In some cultures, the globeflower is believed to ward off evil and provide protection due to its almost magical appearance.
WaterGlobe Flower should be watered deeply to encourage a strong root system, with the frequency depending on soil type and weather conditions. In general, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may equate to approximately once a week. Ensure you're providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant during each watering session, adjusting for rainfall. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so proper drainage is essential. During the growing season, the soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
LightGlobe Flower thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would provide morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates. It can tolerate more shade, but flowering may be reduced in too much shade. Make sure the plant is protected from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureThe Globe Flower prefers cooler climates and should be grown in areas where summer temperatures typically do not exceed 75°F. It can tolerate cold down to about -20°F. The plant's ideal growing temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F, but it will survive within the aforementioned temperature range.
PruningPrune Globe Flower to remove faded flowers and maintain plant shape. Deadheading after the first bloom may encourage a second flush of flowers. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing dead or damaged stems. Cut back to the ground in late fall after the foliage dies back or in early spring before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Globe Flower 'Superbus' thrives in consistently moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A mix of loam and peat with some sand for drainage works best. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingGlobe Flowers like 'Superbus' do not need to be repotted frequently, as they are typically grown as perennials outdoor. However, if grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years in early spring can rejuvenate the soil and give room for growth.
Humidity & MistingGlobe Flower 'Superbus' prefers a humid environment, mimicking its natural boggy habitat. Best humidity levels for the plant fall within the range of 60-80%, which promotes lush growth and healthy blooms.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Superbus' in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Globe Flower 'Superbus' needs moist soil and partial sun to shade.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleTrollius × cultorum 'Superbus', commonly known as Globeflower 'Superbus', begins its lifecycle as a seed, which when sown in moist, well-drained soil and exposed to proper temperate conditions, will germinate and sprout. The seedling stage is marked by the emergence of the first leaves, which will photosynthesize to fuel further growth. As the plant matures into its vegetative stage, it develops a rosette of lobed, green leaves and a sturdy stem, preparing for the reproductive phase. In the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, 'Superbus' produces bright yellow, globe-shaped flowers that attract pollinators and can result in cross-pollination. After pollination, the flowers will develop into fruit, which are follicles containing seeds that are dispersed by various means, allowing the plant to propagate. During the winter or in adverse conditions, 'Superbus' enters dormancy, with the aerial parts dying back, while the root system remains alive to regenerate in the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Globe Flower (Trollius × cultorum 'Superbus') is by division. Division is best performed in the late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the clump of the globe flower, using a garden fork or a shovel, being mindful of the root system. Once the plant is out of the ground, use a sharp knife or spade to divide the clump into smaller sections. Each section should have a good amount of roots and several shoots or buds for successful propagation. Replant the divisions promptly at the same depth they were growing at before and water them thoroughly to help establish the new plants. This method allows the gardener to multiply their globe flowers efficiently and maintain the vigor of the plant.
