Browallia
Browallia viscosa (bro-WAL-lee ah vis-KOH-sah)
The Browallia is a tropical flowering annual that has blue colors with white centers and green ovate-shaped leaves. It grows as a bushy mound and measures 8 inches to 2 feet tall. The plant is a member of the Solanaceae or Nightshade Family. It is native to Central America and parts of South America. The plant was first described and named by a German botanist, Karl Sigismund Kunth, in 1818. The genus name, Browallia , honors the Swedish theologian, botanist, and physicist, Johannes Browallis. Browallia prefers sunlight and afternoon shade and rich, evenly moist, well-drained soil. Because of their lack of tolerance to cold temperatures, they are best grown in containers or used as an annual. Pinching back the terminal growth of the plant will encourage a bushy appearance. It is propagated by seeds. The green leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate in shape. The flowers are star-like and tubular with 5 lobes. The blue blooms with white centers are present from June to September. Browallia may be grown in containers, window boxes, or hanging baskets for use as either indoor or outdoor plants. Hummingbirds are attracted to this genus of plants. Caution: The Browallia is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include excessive drooling, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, slow heart rate, and death may occur. Diseases, Pests, and Other Problems: Browallia has no serious diseases or pests. Aphids, thrips, spider mites, leafhoppers, and whiteflies may be seen.
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 46 attributes.
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