Flowerbed experiments: growing Dorotheanthus

Many magnificent flowers are not yet very popular among our flower growers. Some of them, which could become a worthy decoration for any flower bed or garden plot, are still difficult to purchase even in stores specializing in the sale of plant seeds. That's growing Dorotheanthus still has not become a favorite and widespread activity of amateur flower growers. But this is a very wonderful, delicate and remarkable flower.

Let's start with what Dorotheanthus happens from South Africa. Therefore he is quite thermophilic in cultivation, but also easily adapts to slight shading. This flower has delicate flowers, somewhat similar to a daisy or a simple aster. But, unlike these beloved and widespread flowers, Dorotheanthus has one remarkable feature - it opens its buds only at sunrise and, together with the sun, “goes to bed”, collecting delicate petals into a bud. Dorotheanthus flowers very impressive - they can be of different colors with protruding dark stamens.

In addition to this “regime” feature, Dorotheanthus also has very unusual stems and leaves. Not only are they fleshy, covered with delicate “fluff,” but they are also “decorated” special papillae, similar to ice crystals or dew droplets. It is thanks to such unusual parts that this flower will receive the colloquial name “crystal grass”.

Dorotheanthus is grown in several species, about 15 of which are available in Russia.This flower is planted with seeds, approximately in March - early April, in light sandy soil. It should be taken into account that the sprouts of Dorotheanthus don't like moving", and therefore it is better not to pick them, but try to plant them immediately so that the plants have room to develop. You can, if you really wish, plant the seeds in separate peat pots. And when the time comes to plant them in open ground, you can do it right away with a pot.

Dorotheanthus is planted for permanent residence only when the warm weather has passed and the frosts have subsided. Both when growing seedlings and caring for adult plants, you should follow the “drinking regime” - these flowers easily rot from excess moisture. Therefore, choose a dry place for them, but do not forget to water them.

Good luck!