The geographic range of Calceolaria extends from Patagonia to central Mexico, with its distribution centre in Andean region. It consists of shrubs and herbaceous (soft-stemmed) perennials. Calceolarias vary in height from 6 inches to 3 feet.

 

It has showy pouch-like flowers. The flowers have a shape of the lower lip which reminds people of a lady slipper. The numerous flowers are typically yellow in color, but are often dotted and spotted with orange-brown. The sizes of the flowers also vary. Some average 2 inches and some are not more than half an inch across.

 

Instead of nectar, Calceolaria offers an oily substance to its pollinators. Bees, for instance, are known to use it to feed their larvae. The plant is attractive, mostly low-growing plants smothered in golden yellow flowers. The calceolarias are small greenhouse herbs sometimes used in the window-garden.

 

Calceolarias thrive best in a cool atmosphere with plenty of ventilation. These plants need well-drained soil and a sunny location. The calceolarias are grown from seeds. Seeds of herbaceous Calceolarias may be planted from April to September. If the seeds are sown in early summer and the young plants are transplanted as they need, flowering specimens may be had for the late fall and early winter. The seedlings are tiny and best watered from beneath.

 

Did you know?

 

• Calceolaria in Latin means shoemaker.
• C. integrifolia is a small, shrubby kind with deep green leaves and clusters of large, yellow flowers in late summer. This variety is suitable for mild climates only.