Cistanthe sp.
‘Airy Fairy’

 

When this unusual & unknown Chilean species bloomed in the nursery, it quickly developed a following! Its form & habit are exquisite – low, often purple-flushed leaves to 6” high & 1’ wide, topped with many elegant 2’ stems that bloom with 1.5” deep magenta cup-shaped blooms all through the Summer. The impression is similar to its indestructible cousin, Calandrinia spectabilis, but the plant is much more petite, like a caricature. Quick to bloom from seed, we’ve found this species can be overwintered if given excellent drainage, but it grows & blooms so profusely the first year from seed that growing it as an annual is slightly more practical. Produces lots of seed & even self-sows a bit! Great for even small pots!

Claire Woods
Propagator