A member of the Primulaceae family, Poison primrose has a lot of cultivars for both indoor and outdoor decoration. Having other names such as German primrose and Florist’s primrose, Poison primrose displays its real beauty by adding its vivid color alternatives into where they are. Also, scientifically known as Primula obconica, this houseplant is native to China.
General information
Poison primrose typically has relatively thick stems bearing green leaves with serrated edges, its flower changes according to its cultivars. But the favorite one for growers is the flower with heart-shaped magenta petals. Also, its flower lasts roughly two months. This houseplant blooms in winter and early spring. In these times, Most of the plants go dormant except this houseplant. They could reach up to 16 inches (40 cm) if well-cared. Like String of Hearts and Devil’s Ivy, this plant is a perennial evergreen. As seen from its name, this houseplant is poisonous to cats and dogs. Notably, touching its leaves can cause allergic reactions.
How to Care for Primula obconica
Sunlight
Over three hours of direct sunlight may cause brown leaves. For that reason, well-covered spots and semi-shade locations prevent such situations. Specifically, diffused sunlight helps the plant thrive better.
Watering
As long as the potting soil is kept moist but not soggy, you can make a watering routine for this houseplant. Also, opening drainage holes from the bottom of the pot is crucial for better water evacuation.
Humidity
Maybe, too much humidity may clog up the pores of the leaves. For that reason, moderate humidity is enough for this plant. To meet the plant’s humidity need, you can acquire bottled water.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for this houseplant is 55°F – 65°F (13°C – 18°C). They could tolerate cold to a certain degree. It is in danger when the temperature goes down to minuses. According to the USDA plant hardiness map, it may grow better zones in 8 and 9.
Soil Type
All kinds of potting soil mix work. But peat-based ones would be more effective. The potting soil should also be well-ventilated and well-draining.
Planter Type
Any ordinary planters, pots, and containers could be useful. To make more decorative touches, you may prefer, for example, animal planters or lego planters.
Fertilizer
This plant needs the half-diluted water-soluble fertilizer monthly. Too much fertilizer may cause saltiness in the potting soil or burn on the plant.
Propagation
There are a few propagation ways, for example, divisions, stem cuttings, and so on. However, sowing seeds could be the only way for propagating this houseplant. The appropriate time for such work is summer.
Repotting
In the case of outgrown plants and tangled roots, replacing the pot could require. The next pot should be at least 2,5 inches (6 cm) larger than the existing one. However, you should wear gloves when doing this work because touching the plant may probably cause some allergic outcomes.
Common Problems
Brown leaf tips: Direct sunlight exposure causes this unpleasant situation. Generally, the plant is in a space getting intense sunlight.
The saltiness in the potting soil: Usually, over-fertilizing leads to this problem. Salt is the genuine enemy of moisture. Having absorbed the moisture in the soil, the plant goes gradually yellow. Then roots take damage.
Pest infestation: There are some tiny creatures to destroy the plant. Here, there are aphids, whiteflies, mites, red spiders, mealy bugs, and so forth. Notably, they invade the plant that is in dry and poor condition.
Suggestions for problems
First of all, cut the brown part of the leaves. Then go on its regular care. To prevent brown leaf tips, you should put the plant in a relative shade location. Protecting from direct sunlight is key. To avoid over-fertilizing, you should dilute the strength of the fertilizer. Applying it more than once a month may pose a real threat to the plant. In case of saltiness in the potting soil, you should wash it with water. What’s more, you may add a tablespoon of cleaning agents into water. When it comes to pest infestation, you may use herbal oils, eco-friend pesticides, and alcohol-based wipes.
Suggestions for the beginners
The common mistake made by beginners is overwatering. Sometimes, deciding to give the optimal amount of water to the plant isn’t easy. Keeping the plant’s soil moist is key. Another common mistake is brown leaf tips. The beginners are mistaken about putting the plant under sunlight because they think that the sunlight is natural and doesn’t hurt the plant. That’s completely wrong.
