Also known as Slipper Flower · 16 saves
Calceolaria
Calceolaria, the genus most gardeners know as slipper flower. We track 6 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 6 most-saved Calceolaria varieties
2 species of Calceolaria
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Calceolaria in Sow
Save the Calceolaria you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Calceolaria
Whats common across all Calceolaria varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 6 most-grown of them.
The Calceolaria year
- DeadheadApril–August100% of varieties
Remove spent pouch flowers regularly to encourage new buds.
- FertilizeApril–July100% of varieties
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to support continuous bloom.
- PlantMarch–May83% of varieties
Plant container specimens after the danger of hard frost has passed.
- Check for PestsApril–July67% of varieties
Check for aphids and whiteflies, especially in humid conditions.
- Winter PrepOctober33% of varieties
In Zone 7, protect with heavy mulch or move containers to a frost-free area.
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall or winter
What goes wrong with Calceolaria
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue on leaves, distorted growth | Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Whiteflies | White flying insects and yellowing leaves | Use insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing on foliage | Increase humidity and apply horticultural oil |
| Root rot | Wilting, blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply fungicide and improve air circulation |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
Making more Calceolaria
seed
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Keep soil consistently moist for germination, approximately 2-3 weeks.
cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip in rooting hormone, then plant in moist, well-draining soil.
- Maintain high humidity and indirect light for 6 weeks.
Calceolaria questions
How many types of Calceolaria are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 6 distinct Calceolaria varieties. The most popular — ranked by 16 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Calceolaria grow in?
Across its varieties, Calceolaria covers USDA Zones 7–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Calceolaria bloom?
Most Calceolaria varieties bloom in late spring, early summer, late spring to fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Calceolaria should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.