Exotic plants in your garden

Brighten up your garden with these beauties which have adapted well to our climate

Amarjeet Batth

A few exotic plants from other climatic regions have successfully adapted themselves to the climatic conditions of winters of this region. Though some of these beauties may not be grown for landscaping but these brighten up the garden.

Primula

Also called primrose, it is a low-growing herbaceous perennial with shallow roots offering variety of form, size and colours. It grows best in moist but well-drained, manure rich soil, with shade from sunlight like under cover, trees or shrubs. Primula appears in a range of colours with purple, yellow, red, pink, blue and white and is best used at entry point in a garden because of the vibrancy of its colours and appearance.

Propagation is done from seeds, cuttings and by division. It can be grown in flowerbeds, containers and pots. The ready-to-bloom seedlings are also available in nurseries. These bloom in early spring. As the flower fades, remove the spent flowers from the base of the stem. This not only prevents seed formation but also makes the plant look elegant and increases the flowering period. Removal of dry leaves improves form and appearance of the plant. Excessive watering causes roots to rot and can get fungal infection. It is important to keep the soil just moist. The plant relishes regular light application of manure during its growth period. Be careful of attack from aphids or mites. Once the bloom is over, shift it to a shady location. Better to divide the plant every year for next bloom.

Cyclamen

It has interesting sweet-smelling heart-shaped leaves, which makes them conspicuous and attractive. It blooms during winters when weather conditions are cool and humid. These are best suited for indoor elegance as it’s easy to manage temperature conditions inside. The ideal temperatures range from 4º-15.5º C. It requires bright indirect sunlight which is best attained near a window, along with inner coolness.

Cyclamen are sensitive to over and under watering, therefore ensure proper drainage and sufficient moisture retaining material in the soil mixture. Never let it crave moisture and experience drought conditions. Also, do not sprinkle water on stem and the leaves as it causes rot, rather, irrigate it at the soil level. High humidity during bloom is desirable which can be caused by misting. Avoid over fertilisers, a light application once a month during the growth period is adequate. As the temperature rises, the plant starts turning yellow and begins to fade before it enters dormancy. Care the plant in dormancy by shifting it to a dark cool place and hold watering and it will surprise you again with its bloom. If the tuber is crowded or outgrown, repot the same. As plants come out of dormancy, commence with normal care.

Poinsettia

Commonly known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, this perennial shrub is very popular. The hybrid varieties are much in demand. The plant bears dark green leaves and modified leaves called bracts are often taken as flower’s petals because of their grouping and colour range of flaming red, orange, pale green, cream pink or white are actually the leaves. Tiny yellow flowers appear in their centre.

A well-draining peat-based potting soil is best for your poinsettia. Do not over water keep the soil moist. It can tolerate cold conditions but not adaptive to cold touch. The plant requires direct sunlight during day for brightest colours. To many, it’s easier to buy new plants each year than to re-bloom the next season. Poinsettias are susceptible to several diseases, mostly fungal but also bacterial and parasitic. As weather turns warm, the plant enters into dormancy. Withhold watering and give in intervals and then move the plant to a cool location.