Darwin's Slipper Flower (Calceolaria uniflora)

Darwin's Slipper Flower

Calceolaria uniflora

Its pouch-like blooms look like tiny golden slippers left by forest sprites. Low-growing alpine perennial; common name: Darwin's Slipper Flower.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; prefers cool, bright alpine conditions; avoid intense midday sun in warmer regions
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging and prolonged dryness
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Temperature Thrives in cool temperatures; tolerates light frost down to 0°C; avoid heat exposure above 20°C which can cause wilting
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oval, fuzzy gray-green leaves arranged in tight basal rosettes
  • Flower: Pouch-shaped golden-yellow blooms with reddish-brown markings on the lower lip, borne singly on short stems
  • Stem: Slender, hairy stems that rise just above the basal leaf rosettes
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain evenly moist soil; mist foliage occasionally to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering

Eggshell powder top-dress:Crush thoroughly dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to slowly release calcium without burning delicate roots
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flowers promptly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the summer
  • Trim back dead or yellowed foliage in early spring to stimulate new rosette growth
  • Thin overcrowded rosettes every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce the risk of fungal disease
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and proximity

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant; cool-climate container specimen for indoor windowsills