Incarvillea delavayi
Chinese trumpet flower or hardy gloxinia
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moist, fertile, well-drained
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: May to June
- Hardiness: fully hardy
The exotic-looking, trumpet-like flowers grow up to 8cm across, and form in clusters from early to midsummer. They are held on strong stems that rise up, often just before the attractive rosette of fern-like foliage emerges. It will help add a tropical feel to sunny borders and patio pots. - Garden care: Plant the crowns so they are 8-10cm below the surface of the soil, taking care not to damage the fleshy roots. Provide a little light shade during the hottest part of the day in summer and avoid excessive winter wet. A generous layer of mulch will help protect the crowns during excessively cold winters.
- Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten