Calceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine'
ABOUT
The Calceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine', commonly known as Slipper Flower or Pocketbook Plant, has a unique and eye-catching appearance. It is known for its cheerful, bright yellow blooms that possess a pouched shape, reminiscent of tiny slippers or purses. This distinctive look gives it the playful nicknames it carries. The flowers cluster in dense groups, creating a vivid display that stands out in any garden setting. Its foliage is equally attractive, with dark green leaves that can be slightly sticky to the touch. The leaves have an elongated shape, often with scalloped or toothed edges, providing an elegant backdrop that contrasts with the vibrant yellow of the flowers. The Slipper Flower makes for an interesting and ornamental addition to plant collections due to the unusual form of its blossoms and the lush, hearty foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Calceolariaceae
Synonyms
Slipper Flower, Pocketbook Flower, Pouch Flower, Bush Slipperwort
Common names
Calceolaria integrifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Calceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine', commonly known as Slipper Flower, does not have well-documented reports of toxicity to humans. Information specific to this variety regarding toxic properties and symptoms of poisoning is scarce in standard databases and toxic plant resources. However, it is generally recommended to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to the potential risk of gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. If ingested, it may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In the absence of specific toxicological data, caution is advised when handling this plant.
To pets
Slipper Flower is not commonly listed among plants that are known to be toxic to pets. There is limited information available about the toxicity of Calceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine' to pets such as dogs and cats. However, as with humans, it is wise to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not known to be safe, as they could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction. If a pet ingests part of the plant and shows any signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior, it is important to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Calceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine', also known as Slipper Flower, attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden, aiding in pollination.
- Low Maintenance: Slipper Flower is known to require minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Slipper Flower has a degree of drought tolerance, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardens.
- Visual Appeal: With its vivid yellow blooms, Slipper Flower adds a splash of color to garden beds, borders, and containers.
- Long Blooming Period: The Slipper Flower typically has a lengthy blooming period, providing a long-lasting display of flowers from spring through summer.
- Non-Invasive: As Slipper Flower does not aggressively spread, it is a good choice for maintaining a controlled garden design.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The vibrant yellow flowers of Slipper flower can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or crafts.
- Floral jelly: The edible flowers of the Slipper flower can be used to make an unusual floral jelly with a unique taste.
- Photography subject: Slipper flower's unique pouch-like blooms make it an interesting subject for macro and nature photographers.
- Education: This plant serves as an example of pollination biology, demonstrating to students and enthusiasts how its distinctive flowers attract certain pollinators.
- Theme gardens: Can be included in fairy tale or storybook-themed gardens because of its whimsical flower shape resembling a tiny slipper.
- Edible arrangements: Although not commonly used for consumption, Slipper flower's blooms can add an exotic flair to edible bouquets and gourmet presentations.
- Art inspiration: The Slipper flower provides creative inspiration for artists and crafters, appearing in botanical illustrations and designs.
- Culinary decoration: The distinctive flowers can be used as a unique garnish for desserts or special dishes that require an exotic touch.
- Bee gardens: Slipper flower can be incorporated into gardens designed to attract and provide resources for bees and other pollinators.
- Seed crafts: Once the plant has finished flowering, its seeds can be collected and used in various craft projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lady's Slipper is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lady's Slipper is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Calceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine', commonly known as Slipper Flower, often symbolizes adaptability due to its ability to thrive in various conditions.
- Cheerfulness: The bright, sunshine-like color of the flowers brings a cheerful message, suggesting positivity and happiness.
- Wealth and Fortune: With its slipper-shaped flowers, the Slipper Flower can represent wealth and good fortune, reflecting the historical belief in the power of unique shapes bringing prosperity.
- Motherly Love: In some cultures, the nurturing appearance of the blossoms of the Slipper Flower is associated with motherly love and care.
WaterLady's Purse should be watered thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. During active growth in spring and summer, watering once every 3 to 5 days with approximately 16 ounces of water, depending on the size of the pot and the environmental conditions, is usually sufficient. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to every 7 to 10 days and provide just enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Additionally, employing a bottom-watering method by filling a saucer beneath the pot can help prevent foliage diseases by avoiding water on the leaves and flowers.
LightLady's Purse thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal spot would be a location where it can get plenty of light but is shielded from the harsh afternoon sun, such as a window with an eastern or northern exposure. Direct sunlight, particularly in the summer months, may scorch the leaves, so it's essential to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
TemperatureLady's Purse prefers temperature conditions that are cool to moderate, with an ideal range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees but should be protected from frost. The plant should not be exposed to temperatures above 80 degrees for prolonged periods, as this can cause stress and damage to the plant.
PruningPruning Lady's Purse is essential to maintain its appealing shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of new growth during the spring and summer months to promote branching. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. The best time for pruning and deadheading is during or immediately after the flowering period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLady's Slipper requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The best soil mix for Lady's Slipper is a combination of peat, perlite, and loam, ensuring adequate drainage and nutrient retention.
RepottingLady's Slipper should be repotted every year or two, preferably in the spring. As they have a small root system, choose a pot that's slightly larger than the previous one to avoid over-potting and potential waterlogging issues.
Humidity & MistingLady's Slipper thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 60%. It's important to maintain these humidity levels for the healthiest growth, especially if the air in your home tends to be dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Lady's Slipper in bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Lady's Slipper in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleCalceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine', commonly known as Slipper Flower or Pocketbook Plant, begins its life as a seed, germinating in moist, well-drained soil in the spring. Once the seed germinates, it develops into a seedling with a basic root system and a pair of initial leaves. The plant then enters the vegetative stage, producing a rosette of leaves and establishing a stronger root system. As it matures, the Slipper Flower enters the flowering stage, typically in late spring or summer, producing its unique, pouch-like yellow flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will develop into seed capsules if the conditions allow, and once the seeds mature, they are dispersed by wind or other means. The plant may die back after seeding if it is grown as an annual, or it may enter a period of dormancy to survive unfavorable conditions until the next growing season if it is grown as a perennial in suitable climates.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Calceolaria integrifolia 'Sunshine', commonly known as Slipper Flower or Pouch Flower, is through seed. To propagate by seed, sow them in late winter or early spring at a depth of around 1/16 inch (approximately 1.5 millimeters) in a well-draining soil mixture. The seeds require light for germination, so they should not be completely covered by soil. Instead, press them lightly into the soil surface. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature within the range of 65-70°F (18-21°C) for optimal germination. Seedlings usually emerge within two to three weeks. Once they have grown large enough to handle and after the threat of frost has passed, they can be transplanted into the garden or individual pots.