Impressed with Bishop Browall, Linnaeus named Browallia elata after him, elata meaning to exalt. However, after his opinion of Browall changed, he renamed the species Browallia demissa.
Although it is an annual, Browallia does well in in shady areas, and is native to the woodlands of northern South America and the West Indies. These flowers make good houseplants.
| Plant Types: | Annual, Perennial |
| Light: | Shade to Partial Sun |
| Height: | 8 inches to 9 inches |
| Zones: | 10a to 11b |
| Bloom Color: | Blue |
| Bloom Seasons: | Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter, Late winter |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Not North American native |
| Shape: | Spreading or horizontal |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Nursery Select Miracid® Water Soluble Plant Food, Low-Nitrogen Fertilizer |
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Sow seeds in early spring for summer bloom. In warmer climates, the seeds can be sown in the fall for winter color.
Upright, bushy annuals and subshrubby perennials. Does best with partial shade. Make sure to provide good ventilation if growing under glass. In less hardy areas, grow Browallia as a container plant in a greenhouse or house. In tropical areas, Browallia works well in a border, or as a container plant.
Well known for their deep blue flowers, but they can also come in white. Blooms best in warm shade.
Needs regular water. Does best in fertile, well-drained soil. During the growing period, water moderately, keep just moist in winter.
Apply a low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
Pinch out tips to promote bushiness.
Aphids and whiteflies cause problems. Fungal leaf spots and tomato spotted wilt virus occur.