Hardy Gloxinia

Basic Information

Common Name: Hardy Gloxinia

Scientific Name: Incarvillea delavayi

Native Habitat: Mountainous regions of southwestern China (Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet).

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Incarvillea delavayi, commonly known as Hardy Gloxinia, is a captivating perennial flowering plant belonging to the Bignoniaceae family. Its journey from the remote mountainous regions of southwestern China to gardens worldwide is a story of botanical exploration and horticultural appreciation. The plant’s scientific name honors Père Jean Marie Delavay, a French missionary and botanist who collected extensively in Yunnan, China, during the late 19th century. Delavay’s collections were instrumental in introducing numerous previously unknown plant species to the Western world, including this remarkable Incarvillea.

The precise year of its “discovery” for Western science is linked to Delavay’s expeditions. His comprehensive plant collections were sent to the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in Paris, where they were meticulously studied and classified by botanists. This process led to the formal description and naming of Incarvillea delavayi, solidifying its place in botanical literature.

While Delavay is credited with its discovery, the cultivation and popularization of Hardy Gloxinia in gardens are attributed to various nurseries and horticulturists who recognized its ornamental potential. The plant’s tolerance to colder climates, coupled with its striking trumpet-shaped flowers, made it an attractive addition to temperate gardens. Initially, its introduction was slow due to challenges in propagation and seed availability. However, dedicated efforts by nurseries specializing in unusual and exotic plants gradually increased its availability and popularity among gardening enthusiasts.

Early cultivators focused on selecting forms with superior flower color and vigor. Over time, different cultivars emerged, showcasing a range of shades from deep rose to pale pink and even white. Modern breeding programs have further refined Incarvillea delavayi, resulting in plants with improved disease resistance, longer blooming periods, and more compact growth habits.

The plant’s geographical origins in the high-altitude regions of China have shaped its characteristics. It thrives in well-drained soils and cooler temperatures, making it well-suited to gardens with similar conditions. In its native habitat, it grows on rocky slopes and open meadows, often at elevations of up to 10,000 feet. This adaptation to harsh environments has contributed to its hardiness and resilience in cultivation.

Today, Incarvillea delavayi continues to be a cherished garden plant, appreciated for its exotic beauty and ease of care. Its story is a testament to the enduring legacy of botanical exploration and the transformative power of horticultural innovation, connecting gardeners across continents through a shared appreciation for the natural world. The plant serves as a living reminder of the contributions of individuals like Père Delavay, whose dedication to plant discovery continues to enrich our gardens and botanical knowledge.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Hardy Gloxinia exhibits several notable adaptations that contribute to its survival and thriving in its native environment. Its tuberous roots serve as storage organs, allowing the plant to withstand periods of drought and cold. These roots store water and nutrients, providing a reserve during unfavorable conditions. The plant’s ability to tolerate cold temperatures is another key adaptation, enabling it to thrive in the mountainous regions of China where winters can be harsh. Its preference for well-drained soil is also an adaptation, preventing root rot in areas with high rainfall. Furthermore, the plant’s trumpet-shaped flowers are adapted for pollination by long-tongued insects, such as bees and butterflies, ensuring successful reproduction.

Propagation Methods

Several effective propagation methods can be used for Hardy Gloxinia. Division of the tuberous roots is a common method, typically performed in early spring or late fall. Each division should have at least one growing point. Seed propagation is also possible, although it can be slower and less reliable. Seeds should be sown in early spring after a period of cold stratification. Root cuttings can also be taken in late fall or early winter, allowing the roots to callus over before planting in a well-draining potting mix. Stem cuttings are generally not successful with this plant.

Toxicology

Incarvillea delavayi is generally considered to have low toxicity. While ingestion is unlikely to cause serious harm to humans or pets (cats and dogs), the sap can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. If ingested, symptoms may include mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or vomiting. Contact with the sap may cause localized skin redness, itching, or burning. It’s always recommended to wear gloves when handling plants and to wash hands thoroughly after contact. Keep out of reach of small children to prevent ingestion.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Slugs and snails

Diseases:

• Root rot (due to poorly draining soil)
• Powdery mildew (in humid conditions)

Other:

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage
• Lack of flowering: Insufficient sunlight
• Frost damage: Temperatures dropping below its hardiness range

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

While not exceptionally rare, Incarvillea delavayi can be less commonly found in mainstream nurseries compared to more ubiquitous perennials. Its rarity stems from a combination of factors, including the fact that it is not as widely propagated as some other garden plants, and because it requires well-drained soil to thrive.

Value:

The market value of Incarvillea delavayi is typically moderate, reflecting its availability and ease of cultivation. Larger, more mature specimens may command a higher price. Plants with particularly vibrant flower colors or unusual forms may also be more valuable to collectors. Provenance (knowing the history or origin of a specific plant) does not usually significantly influence its value unless associated with a particularly noteworthy individual or garden. Current collector trends do not generally have a significant impact on the price of this plant.