Growing Cineraria Indoors

Latin Name Pronunciation: sin-uh-rair-ee-uh 

Although these floriferous, tender perennials with large, Daisy-like blooms were once placed in the genus Cineraria, they have since been reclassified. Pericallis is a genus in the Sunflower family (Asteraceae) encompassing about 15 species of herbaceous plants and small subshrubs. The Florist’s Cinerarias we grow as houseplants (or in Zone 9-11 gardens) are short-lived, interspecific hybrids growing from cool cliffs towering above the Atlantic Ocean. Like those cliffside beauties, these Cinerarias prefer cool temperatures and evenly moist, but never saturated, soil.

LIGHT: Cineraria bloom freely provided they receive bright, indirect, or filtered sunlight. An east- or north-facing window is usually ideal.

TEMPERATURE: Cool temperature, 60–65°F, are best. Avoid putting plants in the path of cold drafts.

WATERING: Water when the top ½ inch of the potting mix is dry to the touch.

FERTILIZER: Feed every 2 weeks with a fertilizer designed to promote blossoms (formula 10-30-20).