Downingia montana is a species of flowering plant in the bellflower family known by the common name Sierra calicoflower. This showy wildflower is native to California, where it lives in the meadows and pine forests of the high mountains. Its range may extend into Oregon. This annual grows an erect stem, which may branch or not, with a few sparse small, pointed leaves. Atop the stem is usually one tubular flower. The upper lip is made up of two narrow, pointed lobes usually a shade of lavender, and the lower lip is the same color, with a central field of white and two prominent projections which may be colored yellow and dark purple. The lower lip has three lobes, each of which may have a tooth. The fruit is a capsule one to four centimeters long.
How to keep Downingia Montana.
Pruning
To promote the growth and flowering of Sierra calicoflower, it's best to prune it from early to late spring. Trim away faded blooms and any leggy stems to encourage a denser appearance, but avoid heavy pruning. This approach helps maintain the plant's overall health, improves air circulation, and supports vibrant blooms, all in harmony with its spring growth cycle.
Botanical profile.
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Genus
- Downingia
- Family
- Campanulaceae
Other names.
