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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 93E0edible
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Hardy Gloxinia

Incarvillea delavayi
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleperennialedibleedible leafnative asiaperennialshade tolerant
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Incarvillea delavayi (Hardy Gloxinia) — botanical photograph
Pl. 93E0 — Incarvillea delavayi
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Overview

Hardy Gloxinia, Incarvillea delavayi, is a perennial plant native to the South-Central regions of China, specifically within the Bignoniaceae family. This plant is known for its ornamental value and edibility, making it a versatile addition to both gardens and culinary dishes. Hardy Gloxinia thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. It reaches a height of 0.4 meters and is suitable for gardens in USDA hardiness zones 7-9. Its edible parts, including leaves and shoots, can be consumed fresh in salads or cooked as vegetables, adding a mild flavor to dishes when used either raw or lightly steamed. Hardy Gloxinia is adaptable to various light conditions, making it a versatile addition to both landscapes and culinary dishes. While primarily ornamental and not medicinal, its edible qualities make it a valuable plant for those interested in both gardening and cooking.

Quick answers

What is Hardy Gloxinia?

Hardy Gloxinia, Incarvillea delavayi, is a perennial plant native to the South-Central regions of China, specifically within the Bignoniaceae family. This plant is known for its ornamental value and edibility, making it a versatile addition to both gardens and culinary dishes.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Hardy Gloxinia thrives in partial sun to full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium. It is hardy in zones 7-9 and can grow up to 0.4 meters tall. For propagation, gardeners can use division or seed sowing. The edible parts include leaves and shoots, making this plant useful both for ornamental and culinary purposes. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.4 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Hardy Gloxinia for the first time

8steps

Start with Hardy Gloxinia to gain experience in perennial care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small pot, quality soil, and a plant or seeds.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil and ensure pots have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants from nursery or sow seeds directly into the pot.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place in a partially shaded area.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full to partial sun, keep soil consistently moist, and fertilize lightly every few months.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sun exposure, not providing enough drainage, and over-fertilizing.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The Hardy Gloxinia, Incarvillea delavayi, is edible and its leaves and shoots can be consumed. Typically, these parts are prepared fresh in salads or cooked as vegetables. They add a mild flavor to dishes when used either raw or lightly steamed.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Incarvillea delavayi (Hardy Gloxinia) — botanical photograph
Hardy Gloxinia (Incarvillea delavayi)
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Explore further

Growing zone
XII

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