Monopsis

Family Lobeliaceae. Monopsis 'Kopablue Papillio' - Monopsis unidentata 'Kopablue Papillio' = 'Kopablue Blue Papillio' = 'Papillio Blue'.

A new plant, until quite recently unknown to gardeners. It is grown as an annual. Its shoots, despite their apparent fragility, on closer inspection prove to be surprisingly sturdy. This plant tolerates temporary drying of the roots quite well, which often occurs in arrangements in hanging baskets. After abundant watering the shoots quickly regain their shape. If the trailing stems stop flowering, they can be cut back severely. In response to this procedure the plant produces new shoots with buds. The only drawback of Monopsis is its slow development, especially at the initial stage. In commercial floriculture it is propagated by cuttings. Young plants often need to be pinched frequently so they retain an attractive appearance.

This is an impressive and easy-to-cultivate plant. It is unclear why it has not yet gained the recognition it deserves. After all, there is nothing better for decorating compositions in hanging baskets. The modern form of the plant is not different from the original - it is a small loose bush about 30 cm high, which looks like a domed tuft. Its flexible trailing stems are set with closely appressed leaves.

Shoots grow throughout the summer season, forming small golden-yellow flowers at their tips. Flowering is long-lasting - from May to September. During this time the stems grow to a gigantic length for such a small plant and reach 1 m. A pot or container with yellow Monopsis can be placed on a low decorative wall or the plant can be set on an alpine rockery. Its shoots will creep over the surface of the ground. Sometimes they even root without any effort from the grower. In its native habitat, in South Africa, this plant exists as a perennial, so it can be easily propagated by stem cuttings that are taken indoors to a dry frost-free room for the winter. Monopsis can be sown by seeds, however they are seldom found for sale.