Also known as Ball-Head Gilia · Ball-Head Skyrocket · Ballhead Gilia
Ipomopsis congesta, the ballhead ipomopsis, is a striking wildflower native to western North America, known for its dense, rounded clusters of pink to purple tubular flow
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and robust growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures; can tolerate some heat but avoids extreme cold.
Low
25% intensity
Does not require heavy feeding; benefits from lean soils.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as Ipomopsis congesta prefers well-draining conditions and is susceptible to root rot.
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during cooler months or when the plant is dormant.
Pruning is usually not necessary beyond removing spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming or to maintain a tidy appearance. Deadheading can prevent self-seeding if unwanted.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the plant.
Ipomopsis congesta can be propagated by seeds sown in spring or fall. Seeds may require stratification (cold treatment) to germinate.
It can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer, but success rates can vary.
Repotting is rarely needed as this is a short-lived perennial or biennial. If grown in a container and root-bound, repot in early spring into a slightly larger pot with well-draining soil.
Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ballhead Ipomopsis (Ipomopsis congesta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Ipomopsis |
| Species | Ipomopsis congesta |
Similar in genus Ipomopsis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
