Pericallis, also known as the Florist’s Cineraria, is a beautiful flowering plant that is commonly used as a decorative container plant. It is native to the Canary Islands and is well-suited for indoor or outdoor cultivation, depending on the climate.
When it comes to cold tolerance, pericallis can handle temperatures down to the upper 30s or low 40s Fahrenheit (around 3-5 degrees Celsius). However, it is important to note that pericallis is not frost-tolerant, meaning it cannot withstand freezing temperatures.
If you live in an area with mild winters where the temperatures rarely drop below the low 40s, you can safely plant pericallis in your landscape without much worry. However, if you experience freezing temperatures or frost during the winter months, it is best to provide some protection for the plant.
One way to protect pericallis from frost is to bring it indoors or place it in a sheltered location, such as a garage or covered patio, during cold snaps. This will help shield it from freezing temperatures and prevent damage to the plant.
If you prefer to keep your pericallis outdoors even during colder months, you can use various methods to protect it from frost. Covering the plant with a frost cloth or blanket can provide insulation and prevent frost damage. It is important to secure the cover tightly to the ground to trap heat and prevent cold air from reaching the plant.
Another option is to create a microclimate around the pericallis by placing it near a south-facing wall or using a windbreak. This can help protect the plant from harsh winds and provide some extra warmth during cold spells.
In my personal experience, I have successfully grown pericallis as a container plant in a region with mild winters. I have kept it outdoors throughout the year, and it has thrived during the cooler months with minimal protection. However, I have also seen instances where pericallis suffered frost damage when exposed to freezing temperatures without any protection.
To summarize, pericallis is cold hardy to the upper 30s or low 40s Fahrenheit but is not frost-tolerant. It is best used as a decorative container plant and may require protection if planted in a landscape before the last killing frost or freeze. Providing shelter, using frost covers, or creating a microclimate can help protect the plant from frost damage.
