Care of the shrub Iochroma cyaneum or Violet Churur |
The genus Iochroma, family Solanaceae, comprises 30 species of shrubs and trees native to South America. Some species are: Iochroma cyaneum, Iochroma fuchsioides, Iochroma grandiflorum, Iochroma warscewiczii, Iochroma lehmannii. Common names: Violet Churur, Purple Tube Flower, Blue Trumpet Flower, Mini Angels Trumpet. This species is native to Colombia and Ecuador. They are fast-growing shrubs that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. On its slender branches appear the evergreen leaves that are pointed, lanceolate, hairy and grayish-green. The flowers, blue-purple or violet, appear in dense clusters. They bloom in summer and fall, although they can do so throughout the year. Violet Churur is used as an indoor or greenhouse plant in large pots, to form groups and as isolated specimens. Iochroma cyaneum needs a full sun or semi-shade exposure and protected from the wind. The temperature should not be less than 6 ºC (42.8 ºF). Purple Tube Flower can grow in any type of soil but prefer that it contains organic matter and is well drained. Water abundantly during the summer and slightly reduce watering the rest of the year. Prune intensively after flowering to maintain a compact appearance. The sap of this plant is toxic on contact with the skin; protect your hands with gloves. Fertilize every 15 days with mineral fertilizer during the summer. Iochroma cyaneum does not usually present serious pest and disease problems. Violet Churur propagate from cuttings in summer. |
Images of the shrub Iochroma cyaneum or Violet Churur |