Gorgeous indigo flowers make a brilliant summer addition to your garden. Half-hardy in the UK, down to -5°C.
The gorgeous colour on these blooms has seen this Cineraria cultivar snapped up the quickest every time it arrives in the shop. The deep indigo of its blooms draws the eye in any garden display. While it isn't the most tolerant of cold - preferring milder winters and shelter from cold winds - these blooms are gorgeous enough to enjoy as annual flowers. To get the most out of them, give them some shade and moist but well-draining soil - and then sit back and enjoy the view.
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Tender Perennial
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Flower: clump forming
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Flower and foliage in summer (they can bloom indoors in early spring, and re-bloom outdoors in summer!)
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Scientific Name
Pericallis × hybrida 'Sunsenedibu' (nearby beauty, hybrid species, cultivar: sunsenedibu)
Common Name
Senecio Senetti, Cineraria, Pericallis, Senetti Deep Blue
Origin
Native to the Canary Islands, the Senetti varieties have been adapted for cooler conditions so they can be grown as perennials in the UK
Pruning Tips
Regular deadheading will help your plant keep blooming for as long as possible.
Wildlife Value
No specific wildlife benefit known in the UK. Growing flowers can provide pollen for pollinators such as bees, butterflies and moths and food for birds with their seeds.
Positioning
Part to full shade is best for this cultivar - with shelter from cold winds.
Water
Keep soil moist while the plant is growing; may need a water in dry weather.
Soil
Avoid clay soils; otherwise, this plant is happy in any well-draining soil.
Food
Make sure soil is fertile when you plant it; a mulch of compost added to your soil should do the trick.
Pet-safe
Yes - this plant is non-toxic, although it isn't the best snack for your pets.
Sprouts Top Tips
To make the most out of this plant, especially if you're growing as an annual, deadhead the flowers as they fade to prolong blooming. Moist soil will also help to keep the blooms fresher for longer.
