Hybrid Venus's Looking-glass (Legousia hybrida)

Hybrid Venus's Looking-glass

Legousia hybrida

Delicate cup-shaped blooms glow like tiny stained glass. Annual flowering herb; common name: Hybrid Venus's Looking-glass.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates mild afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent bloom wilting
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in heavy soils
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Temperature Thrives in cool to temperate temperatures; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, lanceolate to linear leaves; arranged alternately along stems
  • Flower: Cup-shaped, blue to violet blooms with white centers; 1–2 cm diameter
  • Stem: Slender, branching green stems; slightly hairy texture
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Use diluted, low-nitrogen feed to promote bloom production without excessive foliage growth

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 chopped banana peel in 1 liter of water for 24 hours; dilute 1:2 with fresh water before applying to soil; avoid direct contact with leaves to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage extended flowering through early summer
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain plant appearance and improve airflow
  • Thin overcrowded stems to reduce competition for light and nutrients
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower for naturalized gardens and cut flower arrangements