How to Grow Cineraria
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Cineraria
Pericallis × hybrida
flowerCineraria is a showy flowering plant known for its large, daisy-like flowers in vibrant shades of blue, purple, pink, red, and white, often with contrasting centers. It is a tender perennial typically grown as an annual or cool-season houseplant, prized for its spectacular winter and spring blooms. Native to the Canary Islands, it prefers cool temperatures and bright indirect light.
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Example Cineraria timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cineraria
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Cineraria blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11 for outdoor growing; best grown as a cool-season pot plant in zones 3-9
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Seed Germination
10-14 daysTiny seeds are just beginning to sprout. Seedlings are very delicate with cotyledons emerging.
Sow on moist seed-starting mix, do not cover completely. Maintain 65-70°F temperature. Provide consistent moisture and bright light. Germination takes 10-14 days.
Seedling
3-4 weeksFirst true leaves have emerged. Plants are small with 2-4 true leaves and developing root systems.
Thin seedlings to proper spacing or transplant to individual pots. Keep in bright, cool conditions (60-65°F). Water gently to avoid damping off. Provide good air circulation.
Vegetative Growth
6-10 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and a full canopy of large, lobed green leaves. No flowers yet.
Pinch growing tips when 3-4 inches tall to encourage bushier growth and more flower buds. Maintain cool temperatures (55-65°F). Feed with balanced, dilute fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Ensure adequate light.
Budding & Flowering
4-8 weeksFlower buds form at branch tips, then open into large daisy-like blooms. Multiple flowers develop in succession over several weeks.
Continue consistent watering and feeding with phosphorus-rich fertilizer to support blooming. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Keep in cool, bright conditions (50-60°F). Avoid moving the plant frequently.
Full Bloom & Decline
4-6 weeksPeak flowering with maximum number of open flowers. Plant gradually declines as it exhausts energy.
Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming. Reduce fertilizing. If grown as annual, prepare for disposal after flowering. Can be kept for another season if pruned back and rested in cool conditions.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves. Encourage beneficial insects.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Spray with insecticidal soap. Isolate affected plants. Increase air circulation.
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Mist foliage regularly to increase humidity. Spray with miticide or neem oil. Remove heavily affected leaves.
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Dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab. Spray with insecticidal soap. Isolate plant and monitor closely.
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Improve drainage and reduce watering. Use well-draining soil. Ensure adequate air circulation. Repot in fresh soil if severe.
Uses
Indoor Ornamental Display
HouseholdCineraria is one of the most spectacular cool-season flowering houseplants, with stunning daisy-like blooms in jewel tones. Its compact, bushy form and long blooming season make it ideal for windowsills, plant stands, and festive seasonal decorations. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftCineraria stems with their large, colorful flowers are excellent for fresh floral arrangements, particularly winter and spring bouquets. They hold well in water and add dramatic color and structure to mixed arrangements. [source]
Garden Display Plant
HouseholdIn mild climates (zones 10-11), cineraria thrives as a garden bedding plant for shaded borders and cool-season gardens. It provides reliable, abundant color from late fall through spring when many other plants are dormant. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalCineraria species have been used in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in South African and European herbalism, for various remedies. However, modern medicinal use is limited and not well-established scientifically. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeCineraria flowers attract pollinators including bees and butterflies, providing an important nectar source during cooler seasons when insect food is scarce. Growing cineraria supports local pollinator populations. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cineraria is grown for ornamental flowers rather than harvest. Cut flower stems for arrangements when most buds are open but some flowers remain closed. Remove spent blooms regularly to extend flowering period. Blooming typically peaks in late winter through spring.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cineraria was renamed from its original genus Senecio to Pericallis in 1999, though many gardeners still call it by its old name.
- 🌱 The name 'Cineraria' comes from the Latin word 'cinerarius' meaning 'ash-colored,' referring to the silvery-gray foliage of some related species.
- 🌱 Cineraria flowers can bloom in over 30 different color combinations and patterns, with many varieties featuring striking contrasting eyes or picotee edges on the petals.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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